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

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

1. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

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

This can create:

  • Compressor damage because of 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 due to this part’s cost.

2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect 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 could 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 exhaust heat as efficiently.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration could:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and cause an expensive refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.

How You Can Level Out Your 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 might 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 Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces a call at 308-762-1613. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.