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

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

1. The Compressor Is Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.

The compressor needs oil to work 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.
  • Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive components to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, 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 house. This moisture drains into a pan and then out via a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might 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 exhaust heat as well.
  • More expensive 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 cause annoying sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

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

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes 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 assistance of a certified HVAC tech.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give James Heating & A/C, Inc a call at 336-853-6070. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.