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

Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause 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. The Compressor Is Damaged

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 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 unequally.

This can cause:

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

The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.

2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect Mold

Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your house. This moisture flows into a pan and then out through a line.

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

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

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration could:

  • Place extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause an expensive 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 experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, since 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 Cooler Tymes LLC a call at 623-208-6444. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.