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

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

1. The Compressor Is 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 becomes 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 because of grinding parts.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

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

2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect Mold

Water naturally occurs during 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 accumulating in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
  • More expensive 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 obnoxious sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

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

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 tackle by yourself, because your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.

If you think 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.