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

Air conditioners are typically placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature replacement. Let’s discuss some of the issues that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damaged 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 home. 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 cause:

  • 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 breaks, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.

2. Rust and Mold

Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of 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 might end up accumulating in the pan instead of flowing away. This can cause:

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

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration can:

  • Put more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create an expensive refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink even more.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

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

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating 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 level it.