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Posted by Bubba on August 27, 2006, 10:29 am
>My first posting to this group. As a layman, I'd like to get some
>general info from the knowledgeable. Since moving into my newly built
>house 13 years ago, my central A/C cooled well and electric bills were
>never too high. In San Diego we don’t run the A/C more than 4 to 6 weeks
>per year.
A 13 year old home is not "newly". Its more like "oldly" now.
How are you cooling your "well" and your "electric bills?"
>
>I've always been in the habit of feeling the larger, cold fitting when
>walking by the back yard unit to check the coldness.
Uhhhmmm, Im not a rocket scientist here but if you make a habit of
feeling larger cold fittings, then you've got a much bigger problem
that what you think you have.
Might I recommend grabbing a nice pair of breasts instead?
> Nice and cold until
>a few days ago. It then was only somewhat cool and had a little oily
>substance on the cold fitting. I turned off the A/C right away until I
>can get it checked. From what I gathered lurking here, a tech needs to
>at least evacuate the entire system, ensure there are no leaks, and
>recharge with brand new freon. I have some questions...
It doesnt need to be evacuated if it hasnt been running in a vaccum.
Although you will need to find the leak and repair it which would
require an evacuation...............unless you dump some leak sealing
product into it.
>
>1) Generally, how much should I expect to spend if that’s all that is
>needed?
Generally.......between $100 and $6000. That close enough?
> It’s a long run from the back yard compressor to the attic
>furnace system towards the front of the two story house.
Then Id suggest you walk.
>2) How do I find a reputable company with competent technicians?
Ask friends, relatives, neighbors and co-workers how satisfied they
are with their HVAC company.
>
>3) Any other periodic maintenance that should be done?
>
Yes, A "tune-up" Once in the spring and once in the fall for the
furnace and air conditioner.
>4) From day one, the lines in the outside wall by the back yard unit
>have occasionally produce a pressure-relief-like swishing sound that
>lasts for about 20 seconds. Is that bad?
Dont know. Could you send a tape of that sound? We could have it
analyzed at the FBI-HVAC lab and get back with you.
>
>5) Are service rates seasonal? Higher rates in the summer?
Sure you can get seasonal rates. In the off season, we dont pay as
much for our gasoline, truck payments, vehicle insurance, health
insurance, groceries, Schools, taxes and all our other operating
expenses so we would be happy to do your work for free during the
"off" season.
>
>
>Thanks to the group.
>
>Jerry
Your welcome,
Bubba
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