Question:
My air conditoner hasn't worked for a few years. It doesn't blow very
cool air. Does anyone have any advice that might save me some money
on the repair? Should I take to a certain kind of repair shop? Is
there anything I should know about air conditioner repairs that will
prevent me from being over-charged?
Answer:
If it an old one with r-12 in in, don't be surprised
to walk out with a bill for $800 to 1200. My guess is the very minimum
service would be to change out all the o rings then pump it down and recharge.
With R-12 as expensive as it is, this would be kind of rolling the dice.
Even that would probably cost you 100 to 200 dollars. You probably walk
out the door with new compressor, drier, some lines and misc. That's when
the big buck bill will hit. Does the compressor kick in at all? If it
does, that means there is still some gas left in the system which could be a good sign.
If the compressor does not kick in at all, it could be very low or empty
of refrigeration gas. Ifs its completely empty, that's usually a guarantee
of an expensive repair to trouble shoot and replace the hoses, lines or coils.
You probably have two choices, find someone who will basically just put
gas in it until it leaks out. Or, find someone who will completely leak
test it and replace all suspicious parts. That choice is up to your concience and
pocket book. Most larger towns will have a shop that specializes in A/C
only.
That's probably the best place to get it done right.
