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

Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the problems 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 implies, 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 unevenly.

This can cause:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • Higher utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive components to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, 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 gets rid of 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 accumulating 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 costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. Increased Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration can:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose 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 expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, since your air conditioner may 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 The Frazier Company a call at 402-628-0206. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.