Question:
I am a rental property manager. I handle almost all the repairs on
my properties, but would like to learn how to diagnose and possibly repair
air conditioning systems. I have considered enrolling in a trade school to
pick up the basics, but I don't have the time for such a commitment.
However, I would like to buy some books that will give me some knowledge. I
have an engineering degree, so I feel that I should be able to grasp the
concepts easily.
I browsed Amazon.com's website, and they have numerous books which cover
this subject. A few which caught my eye (i.e. pretty cover and lots of
pages) were "Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning," "Troubleshooting
and Servicing Modern Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Systems," and "Air
Conditioning and Refrigeration Toolbox Manual." Of course, I can't tell
anything from the pictures. I need recommendations. I can handle books
with theory and concepts, but would prefer text which is more practical
(some theory with lots of info on diagnosing and repair). If anybody has
some books they are willing to get rid of, let me know. I might be
interested.
Answer:
"Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning" is considered the HVAC Bible by
some folks in the trade. As for a technical course, there are many taught at
night at your local Community College. You can get your EPA license thru
many of these courses, and you'll learn a lot that isn't taught in the
books.
As for Property Management and HVAC service, you might talk to your HVAC
service company's owner about a maintenance contract. This would allow them
to send a technician to do scheduled routine maintenance during the slower
seasons. This prevents many unforseen equipment failures and allows you to
get more favorable service rates and terms. This also could give you more
free time to do more interesting stuff, like golf, or spend time with your
family.
I used to do everything myself too, like change the oil and tune up the
cars. But then I decided my free time was just as valuable as my paid time,
if not more valuable.
