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

Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s go over 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 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 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 create:

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

The compressor is one of the costliest 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 house. This moisture drains 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 flowing away. This can cause:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
  • More expensive 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 cause annoying noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration could:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause 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 requires experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Anderson Heating & A/C a call at 775-230-7628. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.