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

Air conditioners are typically installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature replacement. Let’s review some of the issues 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 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 unevenly.

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

3. Increased Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration could:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and create an expensive 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 experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Knoechel Heating a call at 724-425-5852. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.