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

Air conditioners are typically placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns 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 a critical component. 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 relies on oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unevenly.

This can create:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • More expensive electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive components 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. Mold and Rust May Accumulate

Water naturally occurs during 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 draining 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 bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can create annoying sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration could:

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

How You Can Level Out Your 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 might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. a call at 956-630-3522. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.