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I discovered my air conditioner has a leak. The technician came today and advised that I have a freon leak and they cannot pinpoint where the leak is coming from. He suggested I get an isolation test which costs $800. I would incur an additional cost to fix. The other option is to replace the coil and condenser which will cost $2800 (new air conditioner). He gave me enough freon to last through the Fall.
The unit is a little over 9 years old and I am trying to figure out the most long term cost effective way to remedy this. I plan to get quotes from other companies. I just had this thing serviced six weeks ago and the tech advised everything was okay and I just needed freon. Six weeks later I have a leak. Do you think it is a coincidence or did he do something? I have had the same person service the unit for several years. I just can't help but be suspicious. I was so distraught when I found out how much this is going to cost, I took the rest of the day off.
Has anyone had this happen to them? Does anyone know the lifespan of a central AC? I would appreciate any advice. Thanks.
At 9 years, depending on the climate where you live, it could well be the end of life. In South Texas the AC runs 9 months of the year so it lasts less than one in Michigan. Look at the toatal cost of isolation and repair. Compare the cost to find and fix the problem with the total cost of replacement. $2800 is top of the line. Shop around and see if other suppliers have a better price. Make sure you compare apples to apples. That is, always compare the same size compressor.
I've been doing some reading online and I am more confused then ever. I am going to get a few more quotes to make a better informed decision. I am glad it happened now and not in the dead of summer.
I will only use it sparingly. I cannot pay for any big repairs until 2013.
First thing I would do if he can't find the leak is get a tech who knows about the sealant that can be added to the unit and seal most small leaks thru out the system. It came out about 2005 and is widely use.The sealant kit runs about 40 dollars to the tech in cost and would be well worth the chance. A quailty unit if maintained should last at least 15 years even here in Texas heat.Be sure and have the unit rechecked for freon in about a month. If it will laqst thru the fall its like a small elak that the sealant will work on.
First thing I would do if he can't find the leak is get a tech who knows about the sealant that can be added to the unit and seal most small leaks thru out the system. It came out about 2005 and is widely use.The sealant kit runs about 40 dollars to the tech in cost and would be well worth the chance. A quailty unit if maintained should last at least 15 years even here in Texas heat.Be sure and have the unit rechecked for freon in about a month. If it will laqst thru the fall its like a small elak that the sealant will work on.
Thank you.
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