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

Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the problems 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 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 releases 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 unevenly.

This can cause:

  • 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 costliest 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 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 cause:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. Increased Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate excessively. This can cause annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly 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 requires experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Age Heating & Cooling a call at 208-603-2210. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.