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

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

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor releases 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 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 costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, 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 home. This moisture flows into a pan and then out via a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up pooling in the pan instead of draining away. This can lead to:

  • Water pooling around 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. More Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can create obnoxious 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 further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

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

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Olde Towne Heating & Air a call at 843-485-0967. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.