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

Air conditioners are typically placed 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 issues that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damage to the 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 house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

The compressor needs oil to run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.

This can create:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • 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 breaks, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.

2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect 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 via 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 pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
  • More expensive 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 obnoxious sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

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

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try on your own, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Fire & Ice HVAC a call at 703-595-4157. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.