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

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

1. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

The compressor needs oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.

This can create:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive parts 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 is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture drains 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 draining away. This can lead to:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as efficiently.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. Accelerated Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration can:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create an expensive refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.

How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC tech.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give HCE Systems a call at 276-302-0076. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.