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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the malfunctions that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical part. As its name suggests, 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 becomes liquid again.

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

This can create:

  • 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 fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to 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 through 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. Increased Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration can:

  • Place more 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 faster.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s typically 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 technician.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Edington Heating & Cooling Inc a call at 937-558-9478. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.