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

Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. Over time, 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 fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important component. As its name suggests, 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 becomes liquid again.

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

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 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 is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. 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 cause:

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

3. Accelerated Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can create obnoxious noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration could:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink even more.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, because 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 creating problems, give Pepper AC & Heat a call at 940-202-1184. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.