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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the malfunctions that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.

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

This can create:

  • Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • Higher electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the costliest components 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 is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your house. This moisture flows into a pan and then out through a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up pooling in the pan instead of flowing 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 well.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. Accelerated Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate more than normal. This can cause annoying noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much 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 You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad

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

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 402-509-5940. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.