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

Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature replacement. Let’s review some of the problems that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name implies, 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 relies on oil to run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.

This can cause:

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

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

2. Rust and Mold

Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture flows 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 accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration could:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

If you’re worried 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.