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

Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can 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 implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.

The compressor needs oil to run 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.
  • More expensive electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.

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

2. Mold and Rust May Accumulate

Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your house. 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 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 bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. Accelerated Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration could:

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

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give The Frazier Company a call at 402-628-0206. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.