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

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

1. The Compressor Is Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your house. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes 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 because of grinding parts.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • More expensive energy 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 due to 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 via a line.

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

  • Water pooling around the air conditioner.
  • Rust and mold.
  • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of 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 excessively. This can create obnoxious sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration can:

  • Place extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create an expensive 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 takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, since 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 creating problems, give Lakeside Heating & Air a call at 509-284-4265. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.