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

Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. 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 implies, 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 turns into liquid again.

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

This can create:

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

The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, 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 gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your house. This moisture drains into a pan and then out through a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up accumulating in the pan instead of draining 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.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration can:

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

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give North Mechanical Heating and Cooling a call at 928-263-8570. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.