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

Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s discuss 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 part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.

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

This can create:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • Higher electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive components to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, 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 home. 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 lead to:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
  • More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. Accelerated Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration could:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink even more.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How You Can Level Out 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 assistance of a certified HVAC technician.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give AZ Air Conditioning and Heating a call at 800-296-5088. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.