Whether you’re installing 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 malfunctions 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. Damaged Compressor

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 home. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

The compressor relies on oil to work 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 energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.

2. Rust and Mold

Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture drains into a pan and then out through a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could 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 get rid of heat as well.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. Increased Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration could:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create an expensive 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 takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give JTech Mechanical a call at 281-231-8768. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.