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

Air conditioners are typically placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature replacement. Let’s go over 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 suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor releases 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 create:

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

The compressor is one of the most expensive components 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. 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 house. 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 lead to:

  • Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as efficiently.
  • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration could:

  • Put 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 sooner.

How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, because your air conditioner might 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 ACS Heating and Air Conditioning a call at 770-450-1539. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.