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

Air conditioners are typically installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the problems that can happen and how to repair 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 absorbs 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 cause:

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

The compressor is one of the costliest components 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. Rust and Mold

Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture drains 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 draining away. This can lead to:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty 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 may vibrate more than normal. This can cause annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and cause a costly 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 usually 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 creating problems, give E.B. Air a call at 979-335-4262. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.