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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s review some of the issues that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damage to the Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical part. 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 needs oil to run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.

This can create:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • More expensive energy 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. Mold and Rust May Accumulate

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 via a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up pooling 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 get rid of heat as well.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. Accelerated 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.

Too much vibration can:

  • Place extra 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 sooner.

How You Can Level Out Your 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 help of a certified HVAC technician.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating a call at 815-933-8213. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.