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

Air conditioners are typically installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s discuss 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 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 exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

The compressor relies on oil to run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.

This can create:

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

The compressor is one of the most expensive parts 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 naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes 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 might end up accumulating in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
  • More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. Accelerated Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can create obnoxious sounds when running 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 expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, because your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC tech.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Bell Air Conditioning Inc a call at 254-307-9572. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.