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

Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the problems that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor releases 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 cause:

  • 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 costliest parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it goes out, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.

2. Rust and Mold

Water naturally occurs during 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 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 accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
  • Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. 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 quicker.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause 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 takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try on your own, because 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 County Line Mechanical LLC a call at 717-216-0846. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.