Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, having it level is important.

Air conditioners are typically placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the issues that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damage to the Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.

The compressor relies on oil to run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unevenly.

This can create:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • More expensive utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive components to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.

2. Rust and Mold

Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture flows into a pan and then out through a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up pooling in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
  • More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can create annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

  • Put more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and cause a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink even more.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try on your own, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Mechanical Air Systems Co a call at 641-243-4654. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.