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

Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. Over time, 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. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical 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 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.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • More expensive electricity 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. Rust and Mold

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 through a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up accumulating in the pan instead of draining 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 bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. Increased Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can create annoying sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and cause an expensive refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. 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’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc a call at 256-801-4701. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.