While not many know what it is, an air conditioner pad is one of the most common installations that come with HVAC systems. AC condenser pads are integrated platforms made of durable materials that elevate the condenser unit off the ground, away from harmful pollutants.
The outdoor component of your air conditioner is exposed to more elements than indoors. Without an air conditioner pad to keep pests, muck, and ground moisture away from it, your condenser unit may succumb to the exposure.
Keep your air conditioning unit safe by integrating an air conditioner pad underneath. It will help increase the reliability and lengthen the lifespan of most air conditioners.
Read on to find out more about AC condenser pads.
What is an AC Condenser Pad?
The size and materials these products are made with vary. However, they share common traits, such as being thick, durable, waterproof, and resistant to UV rays.
These accessories shield internal components from vibration and harmful elements on the ground against soil and concrete. Pads create a gap between the bare surface and your air conditioner to protect the outdoor unit from getting dirty or clogged.
What Role does an AC Condenser Pad Play in my HVAC System?
An air conditioner pad is designed as the first line of protection against elements. Much like an air filter protects your AC model from airborne contaminants, your air conditioner pad shields it from living and inanimate objects.
Soil isn't the only surface that poses threats to your condenser. Condenser units shouldn't sit on concrete slabs because of the vibration that may cause long-term damage. The vibration may pick at the concrete, producing debris, scratching your model, and dangerous for the condenser's fans to blow inward.
Before you hire a professional to install your air conditioning systems, ensure they lay down an air conditioner pad for any outdoor unit. Remember, some contractors cut costs through these less noticeable components. Considering a condenser pad isn't the most popular item customers account for, unreliable contractors may choose to leave it out and still add it to model pricing.
Before you leave the store, online or on-site, review the pricing and check your cart to ensure an AC condenser pad is included. Seeing an AC condenser pad included in the pricelist without one being delivered for installation is the first sign of an unreliable shop.
Some HVAC dealers carry all HVAC equipment without the expertise to support proper installation and maintenance. It's best to entrust only prominent contractors to install and maintain your HVAC unit. There are more things to consider in the entire operation than just remembering to integrate an air conditioner pad.
While AC condenser pads support the weight of air conditioners, one in the wrong size won't be able to protect your HVAC equipment. A pad that is too small or too thin can't prevent pests and leaves from making contact with your air conditioning unit. Let reliable experts with the right equipment and know-how choose the most suitable air conditioner pad for your HVAC model.
Are AC Condenser Pads Necessary?
Yes. They are the first line of defense against pollutants, pests, muck, and surface damage. Remember, minor issues can snowball into larger ones, warranting costly repairs.
An air filter prevents airborne impurities from contaminating your airflow, but an air conditioner pad keeps external components from damage, keeping the rest of your unit contained safely.
However, routine upkeep and maintenance for both your air conditioner pads and filter systems ensure optimum protection from all elements.
Does an AC Condenser Pad Protect Your Air Conditioner from Flood?
Note that most air conditioners are designed with water-resistant components and accessories, fighting off humidity and other forms of moisture. However, submersion is another beast.
Flood damage to your air conditioner is detrimental, with your outdoor unit being the most susceptible. In contact with flood water, your condenser unit is nearly impossible to repair and poses different threats, such as electric or fire hazards.
Different government departments send out flood warnings. Some states get a sign days before the date, giving you more time to procure an AC condenser pad. However, with more erratic climate change, warning signals typically come only a few hours before water levels start rising.
Remember to install one with your air conditioner immediately and routinely replace your worn and torn air conditioner pads. It is a prudent act that will save you from panicking and relying on current availability, with just hours left to prepare for various hazards.
Where can I purchase AC Condenser pads?
Check the closest HVAC or home depot for availability and pricing. You may find air conditioners that come with pads, or you can find thicker and more durable ones yourself. However, considering your environment and surrounding elements carefully, nothing beats an HVAC specialist's preferences for your air conditioning units.
Consult HVAC professionals in Portland for suitable models, availability, and reliable pricing. These experts know what to look for and how it suits your needs best. You may also enlist routine HVAC maintenance programs for your entire heating and cooling system.
Are Air Conditioner Pads Expensive?
Not necessarily. Still, pricing depends on the material, size, model, and weight capacity. Don't forget availability factors into the pricing. Some models are made with more expensive materials. The more weight it can carry and the variety of elements it can protect your model from, the more upfront costs you may pay.
It isn't an optional upgrade if that's what you think. AC condenser pads are necessary integrations in the entire heating and cooling operation for the safety and security of your air conditioner.
What are Condenser Pads made of?
There are pros & cons to all types of condenser pads. A specialist can tell you which is most suitable for your surrounding environment. Listed below are some of the most common makes air condenser pads come in:
Concrete Pad
A concrete slab with the right indentations and proper leveling, firmly rooted into the ground, is a timeless classic. On the one hand, it is more affordable and reliable. On the other hand, pouring concrete into the ground isn't the most eco-friendly installation. It may be smooth enough to lay your condenser on but may produce debris over time. We already know the potential damages harmful debris around your condenser unit pose.
Rubber Pad
A rubber pad is more shock-absorbant and better at resisting oscillation. It is also more reliable during earthquakes, which is helpful if you live along a fault line. It is also water-resistant but may absorb moisture over time. Its availability is equally problematic, with most rubberized padding specifically designed for air conditioners selling out rather quickly. Unfortunately, some may pass off low-grade composite rubbers as suitable alternatives and sell them as AC condenser pads. If you don't know how to evaluate different class rubbers, you might end up with less suitable material under your condenser unit.
Metal Pad
Stainless steel alternatives are known as metal mounting, with heating vents. It is undoubtedly reliable and durable. However, your condenser needs sufficient ventilation, and metals aren't adequate material to support airflow. Metal slabs may conduct electricity further into the ground within their radius, and vibrations may cause annoying clanging. Still, they are your best bet at keeping insects, pests, and rodents away from your condenser unit.
Wood Pad
A wooden structure is the most DIY remedy you can opt for if you don't have other options. There are wooden fixtures sold in home depots you can buy in a tight fix. Still, it's not the most reliable option. While it helps elevate your unit without the risk of broadening ground shock or producing sounds too loud to bear, it can be rickety. Wooden padding also isn't the most reliable against water damage. It can trap mold spores and other impurities, which your condenser may absorb into the outdoor unit. HVAC services may incorporate wooden components to heighten elevation but rarely use them to establish a reliable foundation in areas with high water tables.
Do You Have Problems with Your Air Conditioner Pad?
Regardless of what your air conditioner pad is made of, without proper installation and tune-up services, extreme weather conditions and other elements may lead to faster wear and tear. If you hear a noise from your outdoor unit, examine its pad.
Is Your Air Conditioner Making Noise?
Different debris matched with consistent oscillation will produce unusual noises. If your ac condenser pad is concrete, debris may rattle underneath or within the condenser unit. Debris infiltrating your unit may cause worse problems, requiring immediate HVAC services.
Is Your Air Conditioner Clogged?
Particle pollution within your condenser may cause clogs. A clog may hinder its functions, causing your air conditioner to underperform. Don't forget that HVAC systems heavily rely on outdoor air. Insufficient airflow may cause overheating and short-circuit the rest of your HVAC units. If smoke accompanied by burning odors is coming from your condenser, please don't attempt to dismantle and handle the equipment on your own. You should call for HVAC services immediately.
Routine Maintenance & Upkeep
Nothing beats HVAC systems installed and maintained by reliable HVAC technicians. You may purchase all the right equipment, but improper handling may render them at a disadvantage. The proper equipment means nothing without meticulous installation and regular maintenance.
Did you know placing a pad near access points makes your condenser more susceptible to various damages? That's right. Unreliable contractors commonly place them near or around entry points, especially the backdoor or windows; this is a common mistake that amateurs and unreliable "experts" make.
Sunset Heating and Cooling | Electric
It would help if you didn't opt for less when it comes to significant fixtures in your home. You must stick to reliable and prominent professionals for all heating and cooling services.
The most prominent HVAC experts anywhere in Portland, Sunset Heating and Cooling, can help save you long-term troubles and inefficient handling. Call our team for AC installation and replacement anywhere, anytime.
Book a consultation and evaluation online today!
