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

Air conditioners are typically placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the malfunctions that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.

1. The Compressor Is Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. 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 needs oil to work 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 energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive components to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.

2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect 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 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.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
  • More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration can:

  • Place extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Loosen refrigerant lines and cause a costly refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.

How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

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.