HVAC

[hgjjgkj]

Every single year, I have had my HVAC break during the summer. The repair bill is always over $2,000. Has anyone had any experience with DIY HVAC repair? Seems like this is a big headache and cost saver if you can learn it.

[trollwithamustache]

Whats your electrical background?  If your system runs on higher than 120V, there is your big opportunity to end your early retirement plans. So yeah you need to be able to isolate the power off, and measure to prove to yourself its off so you don't get fried.

There are also rules that vary by jurisdiction how who and how the refrigerant gets handled. So there is that.

All of that being said, there is totally no reason you can't look on your bills to see the work they did and look up how to do it.  Probably the biggest issue if you have the specialty tools for handling refrigerant if required.

[brute]

You could have bought an entirely new system for 2 summer's worth of repairs. Why is your system breaking? Have you considered getting a new one?

[hgjjgkj]

You could have bought an entirely new system for 2 summer's worth of repairs. Why is your system breaking? Have you considered getting a new one?

Great question,  I have no idea. I think you really see the effects of asymmetrical information in the HVAC business.  I agree on the new system as well.  I believe at one point the system may have been replaced 4 years or so ago (technically this is my parents system, just was easier to say it was mine)

[Jon Bon]

I have never DIY'ed Heat or AC, but I am sure it is doable.

I do however have a GREAT hvac guy.

In a good sized city in the midwest you can get a new mid-sized system install for $2,000. I am sure you could get a deluxe large badass system for $4,000.

Me thinks your HVAC guy might be a thief?

[hgjjgkj]

They have used multiple ones, so I am just of the opinion it is like car mechanics and they are all crooks. They also can price gouge in the south. Car maintenance is easy to pick up but I am unsure about HVAC, as other posts highlighted, it is critical to be good with electrical

[Jon Bon]

Yeah plus if these are calls where its broken, the guy is busy, and its 98 degrees out they totally screw you over.  No idea what they did or how long it took but 2k for a service call is bullcrap.

That being said. Before it gets too hot, or you get a cool spell. Call around and get a few quotes for someone to come out and do a replacement.

[acroy]

Yes
http://hvac-talk.com/vbb/forumdisplay.php?1-AOP-Residential-HVAC
Start reading....
As others have said, the dangers/complexity are 1) higher voltages 2) refrigerant.
I do:
- annual cleaning, wiring inspection
- minor repairs such as most recently a bad 240v disconnect

our system is 14yrs old and running well, not needed professional repair in the 9yrs I've owned it, knock on wood.

[Jon Bon]

Like many things you are not really paying for the repair. you are paying for the knowledge that the repair guy has. and maybe a little for the part. I could get in there and start replacing random components but who actually knows if they are the right ones.

So usually I pay, but like I said I have a good HVAC guy, and 7 AC units so its a good business relationship.

[Livethedream]

Ducting in attic or raised foundation? Is it the actual ac unit? We built our house almost 3 years ago and paid $5400 for everything installed for 2600 sqft house, sounds like your getting gauged. $2k should get you a very nice brand new ac unit.

[Fishindude]

Wow !   Properly installed HVAC equipment should work pretty much maintenance free for 15 years or more without need of any significant spending or repairs.   About all you should need to do is change or clean filters when they get dirty.   I think you're either getting ripped off or throwing good money at an old worn out system.