Every spring I get those flyers in the mail about HVAC checkup services that local companies are offering. I'm wondering if this is really needed and if so, how often do you do it?

It should be a sealed system, but I think my A/C needs recharging. I have one of the oldest compressors I've ever seen that was still running, so I know it is on borrowed time. I'd still love to get another few years out of it if possible. It is running almost non-stop right now to keep up with the heat and I know that can't be good for it.

6/7/2008 11:28:43 PM

My old house was built in 1983? or so. It never needed a recharge and was as cold as the day it was installed. I wouldn't say it's on borrowed time unless it has broken down previously.

I have my system checked every 2 yrs. They check pressures and make sure drain lines and blowers are clean and working well.

I followed the guy who did mine and he told me to get a set of gauges from harbor freight and to do it myself. The pressures are indicated on the panel that you remove to service the compressor.

Some systems are designed to run a lot. I have a two stage unit that runs the smaller motor when one floor is cooling and turns on the larger one when both floors need cooling.

[Edited on June 7, 2008 at 11:44 PM. Reason : I will say the newer units SUCK ass, designed more for economy than efficiency/reliability.]

6/7/2008 11:44:06 PM

This house was built in 75. The furnace is relatively new, but the compressor is very old.

Who did your service? I might get mine checked out just to be safe. I am willing to pay a fair price for work, but I am always worried about whether or not I am dealing with an honest company that won't try to sell me something I don't need.

[Edited on June 7, 2008 at 11:51 PM. Reason : l]

6/7/2008 11:50:50 PM

I will look at my reciepts and get back to you. The people I dealt with were very upstanding. To the point of telling me that they could charge me for something, but that I would be better served by taking my issue to the people who originally installed my system. Good stuff.

Make sure your ducts and such aren't leaking, that'll put more stress on your entire system. I had leaks when I checked my ducting a couple of years ago. Metal duct tape solved that mystery.

Don't buy that system that some companies are selling where it sounds an alarm if your drain line gets clogged. It's stupid. Just check it every so often and don't worry about it.

6/8/2008 12:52:21 AM

^^If you'd like, I can see if my uncle is still doing this stuff on the side. He's a maintenance sup for Drucker and Falk.

6/8/2008 1:09:11 AM

^ That would be cool. Let me know.

^^ Thx.

6/8/2008 3:23:17 PM