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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over 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 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 exhausts 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 because of 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 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 gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your house. This moisture flows 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 draining away. This can lead to:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
  • Higher energy costs 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.

Too much vibration could:

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

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

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

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating a call at 641-628-3621. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.