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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the malfunctions that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important part. As its name suggests, 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 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 create:

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

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

2. Rust and Mold

Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of 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 could 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 well.
  • Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Excessive 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 to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try on your own, 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 causing problems, give McFadden Heating & Cooling a call at 1-866-781-0111. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.