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

Air conditioners are usually installed 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 problems that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor releases 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 unevenly.

This can create:

  • Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • Higher electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, 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 drains 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 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.
  • 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 obnoxious noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

  • Place extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and cause a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, because your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give SchagrinGAS Company a call at 302-231-1380. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.