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

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

1. Damaged Compressor

Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

The compressor needs oil to run 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 utility 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 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 removes 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 pooling in the pan instead of flowing 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.
  • More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. More Severe Wear and Tear

If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can cause annoying noises 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 a costly 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 experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.

If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Tri City Fuel & Heating a call at 803-265-4208. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.