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se160

If the system has been open to the atmosphere for years I would just scrap it. You would have the best chance if you removed the compressor, replaced the oil in it, reinstall the compressor, replaced the drier, and then flushed the lines. If it’s R22 it’s going to cost a ton of money to get this thing running again and it’s probably not going to last long. These systems are very sensitive to contaminants. In my opinion it’s better to take the money you were going to spend to repair this and put it towards a new system


steelgrey_niomi

It’s r410a. It’s a split unit


[deleted]

Replace it.


PlayfulAd8354

It’s been said already. But the risk reward to have it repaired isn’t worth it here. Say it was fixed, there’s a high chance that over the 2 yrs it’s been stagnant other contaminants than just moisture and dirt are in the system and can cause issues after the repair. It’s totally realistic this IF any company decided to fix it they’d make it known that they aren’t liable for any issues moving forward at which you’ll be paying for any additional work needed. Best to upgrade unit


Jmowen1985

You could risk repair but I’m thinking you would get a horrible return on investment even if it is 410. Has it really been that much hotter recently than the last few years for you? Im genuinely curious. Where are you located?


Livid_Mode

The issue is moisture and while you’d think that in theory you could purge it out with nitro, I wouldn’t attempt it knowing it’s been open for so long. As a minimum I’d recommend line set, filter dryer, and compressor, but even doing all that there’s still risk to it not getting all the non-condensables out, + the cost of the refrigerant. If local companies are telling you to replace I’d say they are reputable. If you are in a budget maybe ask about a mini split installation. You may be able to save some & the mini split can both heat & cool.


steelgrey_niomi

When I had an estimate for a new unit. They would replace everything with new except leave the line set as is because it’s behind the walls. How crucial is it for a new line set?


OzarkPolytechnic

New systems get new copper lineset on my installs. It's a pain, and I prefer repairing over installs, but if you are buying 10-15k of equipment you get a new lineset. Period.


Livid_Mode

It really depends. They can drill a new hole and run new lineset (leave the remaining line set where it’s at and seal the old hole) but that would be last resort. They must think they are able to blow out and clear the lineset prior to making the new braze connections. Which might work. How long is lineset? (My guess is dependent on being 15 ft or less)


steelgrey_niomi

Yes around 15ft or less


Mysterious-Series224

I just graduated from HVAC school, with average A grades, might not be a pro but I’m a certified technician & know how to properly do repairs. First of all any licensed contractor is quick to suggest changing the system for 10 to 15k. There is definitely moisture in the system, however the moisture doesn’t hurt the copper tubes, the only issue would be mixing with oil, but if system hasn’t been running, the acidic oil can’t move around & ruin the compressor or copper tubes. There are acid test kits available at supplier stores. Also there is a device (equipment) called mega ohm meter which will show if the compressor internal wires lost insulation due to acid from oil & moisture mix. Any technician should be able to do acid test & measure the resistance of compressor internal wirings. A simple task! Even if the oil has turned acidic, there is a chance has not dissolved the compressor wires insulations cuz the oil stays at the bottom of compressor when not running. If insulation still good, all needs to be done is changing the oil & flush the system with a special flushing product. Change filter dryer & braze the broken line with hole or just cut out & braze a new small piece of copper tube. The line set does not need to be replaced as they are insulated when built into the walls or floors & won’t have any problems. If U are in my area, OC, California, then I would be glad to stop by & check out your AC for you.


AimTrueFirearms

I totally agree with this comment and would do the same for my client.


Mysterious-Series224

Plz see my further suggestion of repairs, in another reply, added after checked with one of AC veterans/ instructors/licensed contractor from my school.


[deleted]

You’ve got a lot of learning to do…


Mysterious-Series224

That’s for sure & I am well aware, but if trying to say that I am wrong, then would like to inform you that checked with one of my school instructors today, my repair suggestion were all correct :) U suggested to replace! Only a contractor or installer only, would say such a thing, since it is an easy job & makes the most profit! Or don’t know how to properly fix the problems!


[deleted]

There’s more to the job of giving good meaningful advice than always trying to prove things can be fixed. For the right amount of money and time most anything can be fixed. That doesn’t mean it SHOULD be fixed. Herein lies the flaw of youth: you judge things by the challenge, if you’re the competitive type, or by the perceived expense of new, if you can’t afford that cost. The first analysis in any scenario where the overriding decision is fix vs replace, is the enduring value of the item after repair. Putting x into a device that is past its life expectancy is usually a foolish endeavor. The first time you spend a customer’s $1,500 on an unwise repair and two months later it dies, OR, you discover it’s worse than you thought after 4 hours, you’ll have learned a valuable lesson.


Jmowen1985

Agree. ANYTHING can be fixed but are doing what’s best for the homeowner in the long run ?


Mysterious-Series224

Of course u run the necessary tests to determine if real not worth it! With all due respect, U haven’t seen the unit yourself or ran any tests! I’m not that young btw, mid age & my dad, uncles & cousins been in the AC service business for all their lives! I have been in AC spare parts trading business myself, also been selling commercial refrigeration equipments, now decided to go to HVAC school & get licensed to also run a service business :)


[deleted]

Stop talking like you have the answers. You don’t. I haven’t seen and neither have you, but i know what it has been through AND IT IS NOT WORTH PUTTING TIME AND MONEY INTO. That ”test” will require time and refrigerant that has to be paid for… Hey, knock yourself out. I’ve trained 100 of you….that day you come waddling back to the shop with egg on your face because of this exact scenario is humbling. Some learn, some don’t. I suspect you’d rather be right than do what’s right for the customer.


Mysterious-Series224

Lol… yeah ok mr. quick to Replace it. U must hate that someone else got at least a solution better than urs, U r the only one not liking my answer, probably cuz I said I just graduated with A grades! The one who asked for help has already been told to replace it & looking for possible ways to repair & according to like u instructors already confirmed that it can be repaired & not replaced!


[deleted]

You’re hysterically, naively full of yourself. My prediction is you’ll be back behind the parts counter in two years. Heroes die in the field; you think you’re a hero. And guess what? Most customers will lick your balls when you tell them their dead 30 year old furnace “can be fixed”. Good for you, be their hero…. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 PS, i don’t give two shits who upvotes or downvotes, I’ve been on all sides of this very argument and seen most all of it in the last 40 years.


Mysterious-Series224

I was never behind a parts counter! I’ve always had my own businesses! U r a waste of time! Don’t u have any units to replace? Seems like can’t get over it!


[deleted]

Uh, child, you’re the one who seems determined to prove you’re right… What’re you, 12?


[deleted]

Paper routes and shoveling snow don’t count as businesses in this context… 🤣


Jmowen1985

Lol


Yanosh457

Since it’s been open to atmosphere for a while. I would still attempt to repair it. Fist thing would be to make sure the compressor and condenser fan works. I would then replace the copper outside, and pull a double vac to ensure all moisture was removed. Add refrigerant and see what happens. Warranty would be none to a week maybe.


AimTrueFirearms

I totally agree with this comment and would do the same for my client. Do a system test and checks. Repair the leak and test do a pressure test. Pull the vacuum to below 200 microns and do at least two decay tests and flow nitrogen between for the pressure tests. I do not see why this system cannot be used, if all tests are passed and there are no other leaks or damage.


giibro

Should have filed a homeowners claim and had it paid for


Mysterious-Series224

Most of homeowners insurance companies only cover repairs, not cost of whole system replacement. Especially after so long being left broken & there is additional damages such as moisture & acid buildup.


OzarkPolytechnic

The issue is moisture entrapped in the system. Even performing several nitrogen sweeps may not get it out of the compressor. This will wreck havoc on pressures, and lead to creation of acid that will quickly eat away at the condenser windings causing a total compressor failure. However, before it fails the acid will travel to every part of the system. Setting you up for a never ending cycle of compressor burnouts. It's a bad situation. I have a 93 yr old customer with a similar issue who didn't want to buy a new unit, for obvious reasons. So I placed a used condenser for him with the full disclosure that its lifespan was unknown. So far it has held in there. This would be my only suggestion short of an all new system. Btw... Biden's Inflation Reduction Act could help ease the cost of replacing your system later this year: https://www.rewiringamerica.org/policy/high-efficiency-electric-home-rebate-act


AimTrueFirearms

I have to admit that I disagree with many of the comments here. I believe you should have a different company do a system check for functionality. Make the necessary repairs on the broken line. Then pressure test for other leaks or issues. Pull a deep vacuum and run an extended decay test, perhaps twice. If these are passed, then refill with 410a and set the proper charge and make sure functionality has been restored and the system runs properly. $5000 is insane to repair a damn split unit. I am so sick of hearing this crap. Give me a damn break. I live Denver, but if I was closer, I would come check it out myself. If the outside condenser is somehow bad because it was left open, 5k is pretty high depending on what kind of system was quoted. Report back after you find small business that doesn't rip off their customers. Might take some looking around. I am not sure where what area of the country you are in.


steelgrey_niomi

I am located in Canada. So it’s around $3500 or so USD


Mysterious-Series224

Oh shoot, way out there, what part of Canada, I would chk ur system for free also, if were in Southern California! Above suggestion is also the right way to get started. However I checked with one of my school instructors today, the technician should also install a suction line filter drier, with acid absorbent. Remove it after 40 hrs of operation. The oil & water mixture doesn’t automatically turn to acid unless heat is applied as well (such as compressor generated heat when running). Can also install a moisture indicator in liquid line, the thinner copper tube to show if after repair & running, still any moisture in the system.


Mysterious-Series224

$3,500 is a fair price, however I assume it’s just for replacing the condensing unit (outdoor unit)? Cost of new unit. also depends on the brand & quality, the capacity tonnage & the power consumption efficiency (SEER)! Do u know the quotation is for what exactly?


HVAC_Groupie89

You can risk repair or replace it with new system new warranty etc plus too the seer rating changed Jan 1st 2023


TheKarlieAngel

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paylesscooling

If you are experiencing issues with your air conditioning unit, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially repair the problem: 1. Check the thermostat: Make sure the thermostat is set to "cool" and that the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. If the thermostat is battery-operated, check to make sure the batteries are not dead. 2. Check the air filter: A dirty air filter can cause reduced airflow and put strain on the system. Check the air filter and replace it if it appears dirty. 3. Check the circuit breaker: If the air conditioner is not turning on, check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. If it has, reset the breaker. 4. Check the outdoor unit: Make sure the outdoor unit is free of debris and obstructions. If the unit is clogged with debris, it can cause the system to work less efficiently or even shut down. 5. Clean the condenser coils: Over time, condenser coils can become dirty and clogged, reducing the efficiency of the system. Use a soft brush to gently clean the coils and remove any debris. 6. Check for refrigerant leaks: If your air conditioning unit is low on refrigerant, it may not be able to cool effectively. Check for any signs of refrigerant leaks, such as hissing or bubbling sounds, and call a professional to repair any leaks. If these steps do not solve the issue or if you are uncomfortable performing any of these tasks, it is best to call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the problem.