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

Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions 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. The Compressor Is Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important component. 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 turns into liquid again.

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

This can cause:

  • Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, 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 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 might end up pooling in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
  • Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration can:

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

How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try on your own, since 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 creating problems, give Better Air a call at 507-663-1208. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.