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

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

The compressor needs 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.
  • Higher utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

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

2. Rust and Mold

Water is a natural byproduct of 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 might end up pooling in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust 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 excessively. This can cause annoying sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration could:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause an expensive refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • 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 try on your own, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Freed Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 309-323-9584. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.