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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the problems that can happen and how to fix 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 takes on heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.

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

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 components to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.

2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect Mold

Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes 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 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.
  • More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can create obnoxious noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

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

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 assistance of a certified HVAC technician.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. a call at 863-216-2923. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.