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

Air conditioners are typically placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause 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. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important 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 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 costliest 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. Mold and Rust May Accumulate

Water naturally occurs during 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 might end up pooling 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 efficiently.
  • More expensive 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 create obnoxious noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration could:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly 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 takes experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give A2Z Air Inc a call at 561-270-6228. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.