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

Air conditioners are typically placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over 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 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 because of grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • More expensive 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 gets rid of 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 might end up pooling in the pan instead of flowing away. This can cause:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
  • Higher energy bills 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.

Too much vibration can:

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

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, 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 Strine's a call at 717-383-4479. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.