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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s go over some of the issues 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 a critical 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.
  • Higher 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 because of 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 house. 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 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 costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Too much 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 further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s typically 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’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Pratt Brothers a call at 920-347-8495. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.