Whether you’re getting 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 can crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions 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. Damage to the Compressor

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 run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.

This can create:

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

The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of 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 via a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up accumulating in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
  • Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration could:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink even more.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Watts Electric & AC a call at 601-736-7362. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.