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

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 discuss some of the malfunctions 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 absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.

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

This can cause:

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

The compressor is one of the costliest parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it goes out, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of 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 drains 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 draining away. This can cause:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
  • More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. Accelerated Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate excessively. This can cause annoying sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration can:

  • Place 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 faster.

How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Booneville Heating & Cooling a call at 662-269-8716. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.