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

Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature replacement. Let’s review some of the malfunctions that can happen and how to repair 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 home. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.

The compressor needs oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unevenly.

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 costliest components 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. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect Mold

Water is a natural byproduct of 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 could end up accumulating in the pan instead of draining 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. More Severe Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration can:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create an expensive refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink even more.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try on your own, 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 B & B Heating & Cooling a call at 314-325-7552. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.