Drought Conditions and Sinking Ground Affect Outdoor Air Conditioning Units
Have you checked your outdoor air conditioning unit recently? It is easy to overlook if you do not spend much time outside, especially during periods of extreme heat. However, prolonged drought conditions can create serious issues for outdoor AC units that many homeowners do not notice until damage has already occurred.
Why Drought Conditions Cause Ground Shifting
During extended dry weather, soil becomes deprived of moisture and begins to shrink. As the ground dries out, it can pull away from your home’s foundation and sink lower than its original level. This ground movement is not always obvious at first, but it can directly affect the stability of your outdoor air conditioning unit.
In some cases, the ground sinks so much that the concrete pad beneath the unit no longer makes full contact with it. When this happens, the unit may become uneven or partially unsupported, placing stress on critical components.
How an Uneven AC Unit Can Lead to System Damage
When an outdoor air conditioning unit shifts or becomes unlevel, it puts added strain on connected parts, especially the refrigerant line set exiting the home. Over time, this pressure can cause lines to crack or break, leading to refrigerant leaks and system failure.
In severe situations, temporary supports such as wooden blocks may be required just to keep the unit upright. While this may prevent immediate collapse, it is not a long term solution and signals that professional attention is needed.
Why Keeping Your AC Unit Level Matters
An unlevel air conditioning unit does more than stress refrigerant lines. It can also cause internal components such as the compressor and fan motors to wear out faster. Proper leveling ensures that internal fluids drain correctly and that the system operates as designed.
If you notice that your unit is leaning or uneven, you can temporarily level it using a wood or metal shim. This should only be a short term fix until a qualified HVAC technician can properly evaluate and correct the issue.
How to Maintain Your Outdoor Unit During Dry Weather
In addition to checking that your unit remains level, keeping it clean is another important step in maintaining efficiency. Clear away plants, weeds, and debris that have grown too close to the unit. Leaves, grass clippings, and dirt can restrict airflow and reduce performance.
You can gently rinse the unit with a garden hose to remove dust buildup. Before doing so, always turn the power off at the breaker. Spray from the top downward so debris flows away from the system rather than further into it.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice sinking ground, visible gaps beneath the unit, unusual noises, or reduced cooling performance, it is best to have a professional inspect the system. Addressing these issues early can help prevent refrigerant leaks, electrical damage, and premature system failure. Call us today for a G-Force Precision Tune-up.
