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

Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns 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 a critical part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts 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 create:

  • 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 fails, 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 house. This moisture flows into a pan and then out through a line.

If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up accumulating in the pan instead of flowing away. This can cause:

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
  • More expensive energy bills 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 sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Excessive vibration can:

  • Place more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and create 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 takes expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try on your own, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give MPC Heating & Cooling a call at 308-832-4321. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.