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

Air conditioners are typically installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns 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 suggests, 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 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 due to 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 fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.

2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect 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 flows 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 cause:

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

3. Increased Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration can:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen 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 expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, since 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 Olde Towne Heating & Air a call at 843-485-0967. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.