concrete AC condenser pads risks

Concrete AC Condenser Pads: Risks and Professional Solutions

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the basics and roles of not only your outdoor AC condenser, but also the condenser pad it sits on. Generally made from concrete, this pad is responsible for a few things with regard to the AC unit itself, including keeping it level and allowing it to obtain the proper quantities of air from its surroundings.

At Lift-Up Concrete Lifting LLC, we’re here to help with any concrete damage or concerns you may be having on a residential or commercial property, including those on a condenser pad slab. What are some of the additional risks of damaged concrete in the condenser pad area, and how can our quality concrete lifting and leveling services help you avoid these risks? Here’s a primer.

Oil Spread Risks

The compressor unit requires fuel to run, and this fuel is generally oil within the system. Over time, AC condensers may develop small leaks of this oil through refrigerant lines – in normal situations, though, this isn’t a problem, as the oil usually just drips right back down to the compressor without any concern.

On compressor pads that have been damaged or are sinking, however, this will not be the case. Rather, oil leaking through refrigerant lines will begin to pool as it drips, spreading to various unit lines and coils. Not only might this damage these components, it will also create a shortage of oil in the compressor, which may cause overheating and expensive repairs.

Vibration and Wear-and-Tear

Within standard AC compressor operations, some vibration is expected – after all, there are several moving parts at work here. However, there are situations where this vibration can become far too great, including those where internal component movement is causing the compressor unit to move around on the concrete slab.

In these situations, which are sometimes caused by sinking or damaged concrete, there will be nothing to balance the compressor. This may lead to refrigerant lines coming loose and failing to provide cooling to the unit, plus can lead to rocking effects that eventually cause sinking.

Professional Concrete Repair

Luckily, all of these potential issues we’ve gone over to this point are easily avoidable. Have you begun to notice that your compressor pad concrete is cracking, or has sunk even a few inches from its previous level? Don’t hesitate to call our concrete repair professionals, who will provide long-term solutions like lifting, leveling and structural support that ensure your condenser pad properly supports the unit sitting on top of it.

For more on how to care for concrete AC condenser pads, or to learn about any of our concrete lifting and leveling services, speak to the staff at Lift-Up Concrete Lifting, LLC today.