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

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

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your house. 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 create:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • More expensive utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the costliest parts 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 home. This moisture flows 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 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 bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. Increased Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate excessively. This can cause annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration can:

  • Put more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and create 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 experience. It’s typically 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 Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 734-284-1224. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.