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

Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s review some of the issues 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 takes on heat from your home. 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 cause:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • Higher electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive parts 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 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 through a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could 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 well.
  • Higher energy bills 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 cause obnoxious sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

  • Place extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Street Heating and Cooling a call at 605-206-3915. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.