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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s discuss some of the malfunctions 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 component. As its name implies, 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 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.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • Higher 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 because of this part’s cost.

2. Mold and Rust May Accumulate

Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of 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 draining away. This can lead to:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
  • More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration could:

  • Place extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and cause 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 typically not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC tech.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Select Comfort Systems a call at 801-305-4777. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.