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

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

1. The Compressor Is Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your house. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

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

This can create:

  • Compressor damage because of 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 goes out, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.

2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect Mold

Water is a natural byproduct of 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 via a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up accumulating in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as efficiently.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. Increased Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration can:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and cause a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, because your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Air-Right Energy Design a call at 703-260-1148. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.