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

Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s discuss 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 suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

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

This can cause:

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

The compressor is one of the costliest parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of 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 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 accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
  • Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration could:

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

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC tech.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Kapaun & Brown a call at 641-812-2028. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.