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

Air conditioners are typically installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions 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. Damage to the 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 takes on heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts 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 because of grinding parts.
  • An overheated compressor.
  • More expensive utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of 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 house. This moisture drains into a pan and then out via a line.

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

  • Water pooling around 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 Wear and Tear

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

Too much vibration can:

  • Place more 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 takes 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 Vogts Heating & Air a call at 208-621-0129. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.