Whether you’re getting 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 result in 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. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical 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 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 cause:

  • 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 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 house. This moisture drains into a pan and then out through a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up pooling 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 might vibrate more than normal. This can cause obnoxious noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration could:

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

How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, because your air conditioner might 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 Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 432-237-0168. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.