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

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

1. Damage to the Compressor

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 home. 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 unequally.

This can cause:

  • Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
  • A compressor that’s too hot.
  • More expensive electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.

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

2. Rust and Mold

Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture flows 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 draining away. This can lead to:

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

3. Increased Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration can:

  • Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
  • Shake loose refrigerant lines and create an expensive refrigerant leak.
  • Make your air conditioner sink further.
  • Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.

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 try by yourself, because your air conditioner might 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 Mayeuxs AC & Heating a call at (985) 764-2426. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.