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

Air conditioners are typically installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the problems 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 implies, 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 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 cause:

  • Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • More expensive utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, 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 house. 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 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 efficiently.
  • More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration could:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly 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 requires experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC tech.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Vogts Heating & Air a call at 208-621-0129. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.