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

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

1. Damage to the Compressor

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

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

This can cause:

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

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

2. Mold and Rust May Accumulate

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

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up accumulating in the pan instead of draining away. This can cause:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration can:

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

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since 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 Halverson Brothers Inc a call at 715-352-4052. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.