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

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

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important part. As its name suggests, 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 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 due to grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • More expensive utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the costliest parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, 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 removes 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 flowing 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 well.
  • Higher energy costs 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 sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration could:

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

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s usually 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 Watts Electric & AC a call at 601-736-7362. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.