I caught a tech trying to condemn a system at a widow's house who just returned from her husband's funeral. He quoted her a $9,000 system to get back going. I asked him what the problem was right now-today. He said bad capacitor. I said dude, put the new part on and leave. He changed the cap no-charge out of shame.

@w8what575

3 күн бұрын

That’s so effed up! Did u do a review online about it for him!? Cuz that’s some info I’d be very interested in knowing and so would a lot of other people! That’s so messed up!

I live in North Dakota and use my A/C about 4 months a year I have lived in this house for 23 years and I think we recharged it one time ! It is actually a system from Sears that was installed about 51 years ago now !!!!!

@pointnIaugh

3 ай бұрын

In North Dakota, I think I'd be more concerned about keeping it warm inside, as opposed to being cool.

@mikeperdue3398

3 ай бұрын

@@pointnIaugh that’s definitely true for sure. But about 2 months or so depending on years it definitely makes life better!

Called a local HVAC company, that my family had trusted for years to come out and check out my system which had started making noise when the heater gas blower motor would come on. He looked at it for 5 minutes and then spent the next 30 minutes trying to sell me a new system, saying that it would go out soon. I later found out that it was just some trash in the air intake pipe, which still makes noise sometimes when the heater comes on and that was 3 YEARS AGO............ But here's the "Coop De Grassy;" about a week later I get a bill for 80 bucks for his visit and he did absolutely nothing.

@timvala7577

9 ай бұрын

And whatever you do-Don’t break down on a weekend! Instead of 80 bucks it’ll be probably double or more!😱😂😂

Too true! I once had 4 different A/C companies out to look at my unit and NONE of them told me the same thing, but they were all very eager to change out major parts of the system. One told me it ALL needed to be replaced. I did my research online and found out 2 things: my blower fan capacitor needed to be replaced ($12) and my motherboard needed to be replaced ($110). Did them both myself. The estimates I was give were between $1,500 and $3,500!

@A_Trade10X

11 ай бұрын

I learned a long time ago, you PAY for what you don’t know..

@tomtommyl805

10 ай бұрын

I"m an electrical Engineer. Not any kind of genius but I can tell you that the most common thing that goes wrong with Electric motors is the capacitor and the bearings. In that order.

@rayburnyarborough4695

9 ай бұрын

@@tomtommyl805 yeah, my favorite ‘new gadget’ was when they decided it would be a great idea to put the plastic capacitor directly on the motor where it could just melt it. I had a fairly new unit go down. There were so many ants packed into the controller that they blew it up. About a week or so later another one did the same thing. My ac man said the things hum and attract the ants. WOW 🤩

@timvala7577

9 ай бұрын

I have about three store fronts that’s been here for years. One I know. The others I don’t. Next to me is more dealers in a larger city that constantly advertises. The last few years I’ve got gobs of contractors operating out of vans. I don’t like to do much with a/c anymore since retired and still have my tools from apartment work. So be careful and try to get someone you know well. I won’t let anyone in my house to fix anything these days. There’s LOTS of hungry people out there!!!!😖😂😂

@bobbear4437

8 ай бұрын

With repairs you have to consider age, and how much more efficient todays systems are! We saved 33% on our electric bill with a new system and never regret it when we see that monthly electric bill!

My last AC unit lasted 41 years. The plate was so worn you couldn't read anything on it. It still worked, just not so well, and since I had to replace the furnace, also 41 years old, it was worth it to replace it.

My over 40 year old system is still running. Good ol sears. It was installed by my dad before I was born and now I'm still using it

I have replaced for $40 the fan motor and we have to replace the starting capacitor about every 6-8 months because of the lightning in the Tampa Bay Area.

20+ years out of an HVAC system is what I was raised to expect. I've had HVAC techs "condemn" perfectly functional systems on me. Fell for it once when I was traveling and my wife panicked over what the tech told her. Now I get second opinions and avoid the shops known for paying big commissions to service techs.

@rayburnyarborough4695

Жыл бұрын

A crooked company tried to do that to a church I used to attend. I think the unit must have come over on the ark. Lol. My second opinion brought us a technician that had worked on the exact unit when he started in the business. In less than an hour the thing was purring like a kitten. A “church” no less!

@whocares5188

Жыл бұрын

If you take care of them I don't see why they wouldn't last for much longer then 20 years. What at worst the ac compressor goes out 500 dollar repair. Better then 5000.

@kfiscal01

Жыл бұрын

How do you think they have all those fancy trucks and vans?

@DEValentine

Жыл бұрын

@@kfiscal01-- Drives me crazy.

@Rhaspun

Жыл бұрын

My parents HVAC system was replaced after putting in just over 25 years of service. The one I have in my house has been good since 2003 when I bought the house. I was picked by the power company to get a free replacement blower motor about 2012. They replaced it with a brushless motor unit. I don't know how they pick who gets a replacement. But I'll take it. It's part of a program that was initiated by the state (California). Living in California we use our heaters for maybe a couple months out of the year. AC is about the same. Spring and fall is comfortable.

I had one similar to the one at the start of the video at my last house. Over 14 years I had the freon recharged twice, and the fan motor replaced once, but it still ran great. I think that thing was maybe from the early 80s. I asked the repairman if I should upgrade to a new system, and he said if it were him, he'd keep it as long as he could because they just don't make them like that anymore.

@james18450

10 ай бұрын

What Brand is your Ac

@mayssm

10 ай бұрын

@@james18450 It's been a few years since we lived at that house, but I think it was Sears or Kenmore or something like that.

@rudito2509

9 ай бұрын

Replacement is the best . I replace mine and the bill was cut off half of what used to be . Some technicians want you to keep the old one so they can secure their job or income.

@bobbear4437

8 ай бұрын

The repairman who told you to keep it wants to keep repairing your old system! Our new system is running cheaper by 33%, and 9s far better than the 18 yr old one we replaced!

@rudito2509

8 ай бұрын

@@bobbear4437 I am agree with you .

KEEP CONDENSER FINS CLEAN. CHANGE THE FILTER. These 2 things WILL extend the life of your HVAC units.

@afridgetoofar1818

13 күн бұрын

Don’t use any filter above a merv 5 rating as it places too much strain on the blower

33 year HVAC guy and my experience is EXACTLY yours, to the letter.

My Rheem classic 3.5 ton heat pump from 2003 still works great & never struggles to heat and cool my home. In the last 6 years, I personally replaced the capacitor twice, the heater control board, and most recently the contactor.

@rayburnyarborough4695

9 ай бұрын

I just posted that ants blew out the contactor on two units at a former house I owned. Apparently they hum or something that attracted the ants.

Something to consider when you have an aging system is efficiency. I had a 20-ish year old system in my small home in Florida. During the summer I was getting bills for upwards of $275. After replacing the system, my bill was literally cut in half. Yes, it cost me a few thousand to replace, but at a savings of $100-150 per month on average, it paid for itself pretty quickly.

@enkidufive3349

Жыл бұрын

I can relate. My bills before the switch-out were almost 200.00 higher in Phoenix. Adding a return, replacing duct work, upsizing by 1/2 ton, and upgrading the new ducts to a higher insulation rating keeps the place uniformly cool. The best part... I did it myself in 2021 after receiving the COVID stimulus and it only cost about $3,000.00!

@integr8er66

Жыл бұрын

That is not at all, always the case. I have a 30 - 35 year old Lennox 2 1/2 ton unit. in the summer my electric bill is about $80 There is NO WAY I could ever cost Justify replacing this unit as long as t runs. Esp since our cooling season is only about 3 1/2 months. Then consider that a new one will at best last you 10 years.

@enkidufive3349

Жыл бұрын

@@integr8er66 Mine was 28 years old at the time of replacement. It was a freon unit that had a leak as well. Freon is SUPER expensive these days, though 407C can be "dropped in". I'm glad you're getting the most from a unit that old, but for me, it was time. Doing it myself, I learned to service the unit myself and better understand its operation and maintenance. Doing that saves me quite a lot, too.

@Snarkapotamus

Жыл бұрын

@@enkidufive3349 - R22 is touted as being pricey, but it's still readily available and a fraction of the cost if buying on the open market vs an HVAC company...

@integr8er66

Жыл бұрын

@@Snarkapotamus I have a 20 lb cylinder thats full, and I have never needed to add any. So I'll keep this one as long as I can.

I had two companies come out to service this year. First one was apparently only wanting to replace the entire system; after all, it's been around for 17 years, so that means it needs to be replaced !! Gave a quote for basically $18K to $23K. Stated the refrigerant was a bit low, but that the refrigerant is no longer available. Noted that the AC compressor is drawing towards the higher side of the rating, and the fan is sort of noisey. Believe he also said that a new fan for the condensor is $1100, and compressor towards $6K ( 3.5 ton unit ) . The second came out and actually put refrigerant in the system. Also gave a quote, a bit cheaper, but never heard of the DAIKIN brand. But the AC is back in working order. Debating when to change it out; but right now, it is working; leaning towards leaving it till next year and seeing how it goes.

My systems lasted 47 yrs. Replaced them because the cabinets were rusting very badly, the compressors needed to be rewired and I replaced a contactor with the last one of its type in existence. So parts were becoming an issue. Got a good deal with 2 complete systems with everything from T-stats to circuit breakers to cutoffs, etc. with transferrable 10 yr parts and labor on everything for about $6200. I know how to install a system and the installer did a really excellent job. Installation is absolutely critical and there's only ONE right way to do it. If you don't know what that means, READ and LEARN. My advice to most homeowners is that, once a correct installation is done, keep the area around the outside cabinet (condenser/compressor) clear so air flows freely and don't let anyone touch it. No "routine PM" ever so long as the systems are functioning well. Techs will damage the Schrader valves and they will leak. They will contaminate your refrigerant. They will use harsh coil "cleaners" and damage them, etc. Make a note of your capacitor type and buy a spare or 2. Do not cover the units completely in the winter. Replace your own inside filters when needed. Do not exceed MERV 8. Do not buy complex and very expensive systems in the name of "efficiency". Simplicity is almost always best. Brand is not important. Inexpensive units are just fine. VERY expensive brands are usually mistakes for a variety of reasons.

78-80 degrees lol. 74 is about the threshold for tolerable in the south during the summer.

@gestapoid

4 күн бұрын

Yep. Anything above 75 becomes VERY uncomfortable. Also, it doesn't cool off all that much at night in the south, so that 80 degree inside temp will still be high when it's time to sleep.

@KennethVanWieII

2 сағат бұрын

@@gestapoidYeah a thermostat at 78-80 degrees in Georgia, no thanks, that’s madness.

My old central AC was still working perfectly fine at about 40 years old. But I replaced it with the furnace also about 40 years old. The new one works good too, but I notice my power bill went down around 50 percent with the new one.

@rayburnyarborough4695

Жыл бұрын

Just curious? Has the weather been normal. It’s absolutely nuts in Tennessee. It’s up and down like a roller coaster. There are many factors to consider, you probably know. I sold a house a few years ago that had an older Sears split unit, ac and gas furnace in it. I was having a minor issue with the furnace that I thought I had fixed. The heat exchanger looked brand new. The ac worked fine. We sold the house and a short time later I spoke with the new owner. One of the crooked companies charged them $14,000 to replace the older units. Seems to me that that money would go a long way towards electricity. Sometimes a new thermostat can make a big difference. With all that said, I recommend to anyone, to install a radiant barrier in the attic. I’ve used it for years and is an energy saver that could further reduce your energy bill. For $.14/ sf it’s well worth it. I get mine straight from the manufacturer in Texas. I only pass on what I consider to be valuable information. I’ve owned my construction business for 38 years and have been truly blessed. You might want to check it out.

@francescag6889

Жыл бұрын

What brand did you have that it lasted 40 years?

@carguy4243

Жыл бұрын

@Francesca G Fedders AC and Whirlpool gas furnace. Both installed in 1979 when home was new.

@carguy4243

Жыл бұрын

@Francesca G my next door neighbor still has her 1979 fedders AC in her condo. Still going almost 45 years.

@johndowns7536

Жыл бұрын

Fedders went broke, units were too long lasting

My parents ac unit was installed in 1986 and still running strong. Same with dishwasher and refrigerator. In my home in 10 years I’m on my 3rd dishwasher and refrigerator. Planned obsolescence. Remember when led lights didn’t burn out? No mine are lasting as long as filament bulbs

@gregorymalchuk272

Жыл бұрын

Get the frosted glass filament type LED bulbs. The diodes are isolated from the electronics and they are filled with helium for cooling. They last much longer.

@TomBTerrific

Жыл бұрын

@@gregorymalchuk272 I thought LED lights didn’t generate heat?

@crazywarp36

4 ай бұрын

​@@TomBTerrificwho told you that lol? Leds can get pretty hot

@KennethVanWieII

2 сағат бұрын

It’s not so much the LED that gets hot as much as it is the driver or electronics that power the LED. That’s also what is the usual component that fails, not the LED it self. They could easily use more robust drivers but then you wouldn’t keep buying new bulbs.

Turns out none of the technicians could tell me what was wrong and they wanted me to tell them and then would try and fix it. Turns out HVAC system had a lot of leaks and had refill with Freon frequently. Since system was not even 10 years old very frustrating. Decided to replace entire system and cost about $7,000. Basically , just trying to screw you in end and just as likely just flat out don’t understand their craft. If I were you, I would learn everything I could before I got estimates and repairs.( I needed the old type Freon so that was a big factor. The old stuff is expensive and harder and harder to get)

My 41-year-old straight cool system is still going, and this is in Florida so it gets a lot of use. It used to burn up condenser fan motors every few years, until I replaced the 1/4 hp motor with a 1/3 (I found out the original came with an option of 1/4 or 1/3). Capacitors needed replacing twice in the last 18 years. It once had a pinhole leak near the filter drier which I replaced, but otherwise nothing has gone wrong. The compressor is getting a bit loud, but I'm hoping to get a few more years out of it. You might think a new system would pay for itself with energy savings, but if you do the math and include moderate interest on the cost of a new system, it would take at least 30 years, and I don't expect a new system to last that long.

@paulwitmer7138

Жыл бұрын

We have a huge problem with cheap crap that doesn't last. Where's the government when you need it to regulate. Consumer cheaters need To be exposed. Every product should have a manufacturer stated life expectancy posted on it So you know when you're buying a short life product

@integr8er66

Жыл бұрын

You are 100% spot on!

@santiagovasquez1404

Жыл бұрын

units that are 40 years old were all over sized, inefficient & loud you have in payments to the power company paid for a new system multiple times. power company will pay you to throw that piece of junk away.

@jmodified

Жыл бұрын

@@santiagovasquez1404 Not at all. I live in Florida and pay about $600 per year for cooling (I know from comparing electricity costs for winter months where we use no heating or cooling to the rest of the year). At 5% interest the total amortized cost of a new $6,000 system that lasts 20 years will be $475 per year. Do you really think a new system is going to be four times as efficient as the current one? And the old systems were not oversized - the new ones are much larger for the same tonnage - the condenser units are at least twice the size, and for some reason they try to sell everyone larger systems then in the past for the same square footage.

@Snarkapotamus

Жыл бұрын

Too many variables (structure insulation, kWh rate and climate) to know for sure. But, I just did the math and for us, it makes sense to update to a 22SEER from our old 10SEER unit that's been costing a couple hundred a year in service charges...luckily we haven't had a serious R22 leak, but if we had (and lost it all), we'd be paying roughly $1500 just to get it recharged after the leak gets fixed!

Nice to have this input from you!. My Day and Night AC unit is going strong after 30 yrs. Yes we done stuff to it but nothing major. Most recent was the condenser fan. Thanks.

You make excellent HVAC videos. To the point - - which is what I like!

Who wants a home at 78-80°? Size the system right to be able to handle the heat load. Midwest here and AC is 65° all summer. Very rare to see those 100+ days however we do get many above 90. Two story home and I find even 70° upstairs is uncomfortable during the summer months.

@mattheww797

Жыл бұрын

are you santa. Why u need ur house that cold

@joshsansone5113

Жыл бұрын

@@mattheww797 It is proven you sleep better when the temperature is cool. In that 60-65° range. Nothing better than when it is 90°+ outside with high humidity and you walk in the door to a cool 65° and 45% humidity. Creature comforts.

@djkenny1202

Жыл бұрын

@@joshsansone5113 65 is kinda crazy shock cold. I am not a fan of extreme changes from outside. Maybe if it is 80 outside, but our insulation is so good, our system does need to come on. Its 73/74.

Great video!!!! My parents Lennox lasted 27 years and just has heat strips since it is in FL. It was still working fine when they replaced it they just wanted a new system. It had a fan with a grease fitting it was so old.

Thank you so much for these videos! These are great!

Mines been working 22 years and still going strong. Take care of your equipment and learn a little and it’ll last you forever. Most hvac stuff is really simple. Too many folks get taken advantage of.

Well, speaking as a commercial HVAC technician, I can tell you that a residential system should last 25 years, but nothing made in the past 15 years is going to last that long because the entire residential segment….from service companies to manufacturers….. has decided that about seven or eight years is about what you’re going to get it out of a residential system….because they want to sell systems and they don’t want to repair them. They don’t want to have to hire technicians who know how to repair them. They want to hire sales people who know how to sell them. Lots of TV commercials and bright service trucks and white shirts on the technicians and top dollar for every single install. I am so glad that my job puts me in zero basements, zero crawlspaces, and zero attics.

You are a great resource I'm right on the ocean on A1A in Daytona Beach they always say 3 to 5 years 5 years max just across the bridge inland 15 years

I like your video very much, but I like the detailed price list that you linked to even more!

I just had mine changed last year because I'm getting old and it really wasn't cooling very well. In the 30+ years I've lived here, I had it serviced twice with no apparent problems. I did some mods to it myself that did improve it's performance. I believe it's the original one when this condo was built in the 70's.

This information was very helpful. Thank-you.

I agree with folks saying they saw an efficiency improvement with a new system. I am licensed hvac, but as a facilities mgr I do mostly package rooftop units and refrigeration, so I know how to repair and maintain and I got 21 years out of my Bryant 410a units at home. I replaced them this June (same tonnage and gas but higher seer) and saw a $250+ per month savings for July and August. We did have a cooler summer than last year, but I was more than pleasantly surprised.

I’d love to see the video idea you mentioned about good vs bad installations. I hear all over and all the time that the installer matters most. But as just a dumb homeowner, how can I tell?

@rayburnyarborough4695

9 ай бұрын

May I share a story with you? Of course I’m in construction but if I don’t learn something new every day I feel like I’m backing up. I was remodeling my house and contracted a company, mainly for my kitchen cabinets and countertops. I do most everything myself, excluding quartz countertops. My next door neighbor was having some tops put on a small island in his kitchen. I just happened to catch the guy measuring his tops and spoke very briefly. Well, my neighbor had one of the most horrific jobs done that I had ever seen. When I got ready for my tops, lo and behold this same guy shows up. I stepped outside, explained the situation, and told him right out, that if he didn’t promise that he would send his top crew to install my tops, he was not coming in my house. During my install I think there were about eight of them there at one point. Most of them just stopped by to make sure everything was going smoothly. I was more than pleased with the job. So yes my friend, the installers make all the difference in the world. Sometimes, the squeaky wheel still gets the grease! Blessings!

Great series of videos that you all have put out. Thank you for your service; however, have you considered making any video about mini-splits. Which brands to consider, reliability operation life, or even how hard is it to get them serviced. Thank you!

@jonniesantos

5 ай бұрын

I’ve got a 12 year Mitsu m/s with a stuck switching valve. The original installer guessed $2-3k to repair, but suggested new at $14k (18k btu, single inside air handler). It was a new tech accompanied with a sales guy. I got a second opinion, guy didn’t want to repair and would not give me a ballpark number for new (even though I found a system delivered for under $2k). Will try again after the holidays.

Glad we went with two trane xe800 units in 1991 when building our home. One of the units had shut down on us but we had that fixed sometime in the 2000s.

I love the videos. Really good information thank you ya'll

Thanks for the info. My system is 5 years out and the blower motor took a hit and there rust on the blower housing

I’m in North Texas and my 1999 system finally gave up the ghost, so can’t complain after 25 years of service with only maybe $1,200 spent over 17 years replacing capacitors and furnace igniter. Based on these videos, will call Atlas (if in service area).

If PROPERLY serviced annually, at LEAST 20 years! I have seen older, but they were terribly inefficient on electric bills. Now, the biggest headache is the neverending change of new expensive refrigerants that won't work in existing systems. Even worse is the poorly educated or crooked service people and crooked contractors that give an honest trade a bad image.😡 I was in the trade for over 45 years and NEVER tried to cheat or bamboozle a client.

central valley in california - 100 to 110 is pretty common. I like your clear, precise videos. Thank you. Wish you guys were in our area..our 2011 day and night (mare) system - condenser and evaporator have been replaced multiple times - bad batch of oem components - well known problem. Installer has retired . Went with a new company to trouble shoot when it wouldn't stay within 2 degrees of setpoint - always a tip off that it's low on refrigerant. 450$ service call and replaced capacitor BEFORE checking the pressures (same visit)- it had leaked down over the winter. Couldn't isolate the line set, but pressurized the lines with nitrogen and determined it's either the line set or the evaporator (in the attic with the gas furnace and blower) - quoted 3-4k$ for replacement evaporator. decided to replace with a carrier- performance.. single stage - ac and gas - 15k , vs 10k of 2011 day and night.. I might have made a huge mistake :) But for a 1500 sq foot house, your video's have helped me with my "confirmation bias" - the new company didn't really give me options - good, better, best. just said - here's our estimate for anew system.. with temps heading up - I did not want to delay. And your video on refrigerant again changing in 2025, now is not a bad time to get a new system, but 13 years seems really a short life time. :) Thank again.

@w8what575

3 күн бұрын

That’s how all the new stuff is and will be….government has regulated the manufacturers to make things more high efficiency and shorter lifespan since we live in socialist America now, we have no other choices and the government dictates what we can and can’t have…the new Freon isn’t nearly as efficient as the r22 is but since we allow psychopaths to dictate what science is most of which they pull out their rear ends and we eat it up like it’s fact…they’re going to also be banning oxygen which is considered a greenhouse gas and is blamed for the ozone being depleted ….ehat a joke! Freon is simply methane propane butane etc….not manmade synthetic and does break back down to its natural elements but to keep us having to spend money they use word salad to confuse us and think it’s bad….i hate this reality because of these psychopaths…don’t get me started in washing machines!

I had a "comfort maker" in Temecula, CA for 20 years. It was still working when I replaced it, but it had some old coolant in it that could not be replaced.

I have 2 4- plexes built in 1982. One had cheap units and I replaced them last year. I was going to change the other ones but haven't had any problems for years. And there in Arizona. So they last longer than you think.

I live in central Florida. My home was built in 2004 and we have the original AC unit still operating fine. We have has several issues that have run a few hundred dollars to fix like circuit boards and different things needing replaced but it’s still running. In the winter on freezing days (yes we have freezing here) the outside unit ices over but that defrost as the morning temperatures rise. I actually was asking the technician when I should plan on replacing my unit and he was hesitant to answer me. Guess I’m fortunate to have an honest opinion.unfortunately the company owner is retiring so I’m going to need to find a new maintenance provider. Crossing my fingers.

Two most important things .... replace air filters because not only will it wreck the efficiency because of low air flow if you get that evaporator coil full of dirt it's going to cut the air flow and wreck dehumidification .... Second is keeping the condenser coil clean .... A dirty condenser coil will make your compressor work harder than it needs to lowering it's lifespan and both will cause you to burn much more electricity than you need to

@afridgetoofar1818

13 күн бұрын

Low end filters are better than high end ones due to increased air flow. Just change them out more often

The main problem with modern systems is the evaporator coils corrode and leak refrigerant. My house has been through 3 of them in 10 years. Its ridiculous, the EPA should investigate all manufacturers. Keep your old system running as long as you can...

@midlife_minimalist

Жыл бұрын

My 3rd coil is now leaking on an almost 12 yr old unit

@charlesronk2989

11 күн бұрын

That is my thought. I watched another HVAC channel the guy was demonstrating a tool to tell how much life your compressor has left. He tested a 20 year old compressor that showed like 100% life left. He tested a new unit. It showed it was almost time to replace the compressor. I have absolutely zero trust in this entire industry. From those making and selling products to those servicing and installing.

I pressed the LIKE button when I read the title !! And subscribed. 😊

Repairs are fine but my ac even when working struggles to keep the house below 80 in Florida in summer. Just put down deposit today for a much higher system and Im mildly excited for it.

I've got 30 years so far on my AC and Furnace. I live in Colorado and have both furnace and AC serviced once per year. I expect to probably replace in the next few years.

I know my parents had a unit for almost 30 years Raheem.. The only thing that used to go bad on it was the contactor still have a bunch of contactors for it... But that thing still blows cold I just repaired myself luckily the compressor Never went bad and this is Arizona Phoenix metro so that thing was working overtime Half the year... Recently we sold the house because my parents passed.. But the unit was still blowing good.. The heat pump we rarely used it's the same just the AC in reverse The temperature on dial was always around 75 ish or 78 ish Even on 115° day

My dad's HVAC was over 30-years old MN. he and mom changed the filter ever 3-months. The guy my dad had come over is a hometown guy a little over 3000 population. I was classmate of his brother, my sister and his sister. Everyone knew his grandfather.

Here in Canada, really hot days are few and far between. According to my smart thermostat, our AC has only been running for less than 20 hours in total per year. I hope that means it will last a long time.

If I kept my AC at 80, I would sweat my head off. I keep it at 75 in Central Va.

Nice job. I would differentiate the environment they operate in, I'm commercial, and we usually say 12-15 year lifespan. Equipment these days, unfortunately isn't built like it used to be. Commission sales techs make all of us look bad.

Good practical advice. I have been asked if they can provide an estimate for a new system. The cost of parts and labor seem a bit high as well. A new system just seems more complicated thus costly.

My home cental AC system is running strong almost 40 yrs old (36yrs). Just normal maintenance and filter change every year

Yeah, I've got an old York gas pack that was installed in '97. What's amazing is this house was a rental for over a decade with a lot of different tenants, so you know it took a beating.

My 1979 BCD(Bryan/Carrier/Day&Night) lasted until 2018 in Las Vegas.

I have a unit from original house being built... 1998. I've changed the capacitor 3 times and the top fan. It's been serviced only 1 time and after that I've been maintaining it myself with KZread videos. They even checked it couple months a lookgo by local hvac tech and he said it's old but it's still running ok. No leaks and he said it was still pretty cold. At this point i can see it failing anytime soon. It's been really running hard on 100 degree weather. But i can definitely see me replacing this to save money on electric bill.

I have 29 years on my Trane XL 1200 and it still works.

We live in the scorching desert of Arizona and our Trane is 31 years old and running strong. Proper maint and we don't run the heatpump in the winter. I'm thinking/hoping we can get another 9 years out of it. we run it at 80 as when it's 100+ outside 80 feels great

24 years, Rheem 10 SEER. It was still working fine when we replaced it. Charged maybe a few times and I changed the starter contactor twice. Just didn't want to worry each year if "this" will be the summer it quits. Plus now with this 16 SEER I'm saving on the bill. Was a good decision to replace ti. I wished I would have replaced it sooner with the bill savings.

I got 25 years with a Ruud 5 ton unit that i never put a cover on. My issue was the coil in the air handler in attic anyway. I am driving a 38 year old truck though...

I live in North Texas. Running the AC constantly is common from around June - Sep. Setting it at 78 degrees is not practical (especially if you're retired and live in the home all day). PM contracts are cheap and well worth it (I use Bill Joplin's...A+++ BTW). My HVAC is serviced twice a year and I routinely change the filters and use bleach solution to keep the drainage lines clear. My HVAC system is Carrier and when I purchased my new home three years ago, it came with a 10 year warranty. My HVAC technician is the same guy every time. He knows my system very well and I always pick his brain on do's and don'ts of HVAC. That's another benefit of having regular PM done by the same company.

I have a 1979 sears AC still running strong. Have replaced the contactor twice and one capacitor. I’ll use it as long as possible.

My 25 year old compressor finally kicked the bucket yesterday so I'm looking for a new one. I knew it was on borrowed time. I'm trying to decide if I should get window units instead, they are definitely less expensive.

Company came out to check my AC. Airflow was a little weak. Freon pressure was good. Said evaporator coils were dirty. They said the system was working "great" but since it was 13 years old he recommended replacing the whole thing (heat pump). When I came home, I saw that the CONDENSER was impacted on the eastern side with thick dust. He never told me that.

All good comments below. One thing to factor in too are the rebates (utilities) and credits (federal govt) are giving. My fiance's house needed a new electrical panel. It also had a 15 year old electric water heater, that was going to get more usage now. I got a heat pump water heater: one sale; with a utility rebate, and a fed tax credit. Work on electrical panels as part of other energy savings work allows the fed tax credit to apply to that, so that was free money. I'm having the 15 yr old HVAC system looked at (by her relative, who did the original install). If it looks good, then great. If not, because there are bonus rebates if that is also replaced, then I'd look into that this year, and get some extra savings.

30years old heat pump. in Florida. going great. I get it maintained yearly and will replace components as needed. Compressor once. main board twice. and capacitor multiple times. How well it is maintained and checked is the key in my opinion.

I have a 42 year old lennox heat pump. Might be time to change it out. I use it to heat in the spring and fall cool in the summer.

great info Atlas :)

Mine 23 yrs old, still going strong. R22, I stockpiled parts when I saw this coming. Including Freon. FJB.

I'm on my 3rd heat pump unit in a 24 year span. The second unit (Ducane) required a pound of refrigerant ($200) at the 11 year mark (previous refrigerant) - noticeable improvement. 3 months later, the unit failed (accumulator?). Now on my 3rd heat pump unit (Also Ducane - new A coil this time) - 1/2 ton larger and uses the new refrigerant. Same contractor for the last 2 installs.

Great info thank you!

Had an AC/Gas furnace combo that dated from 1987. Had to replace it last year cause the bottom of the furnace started rusting badly and the gas eventually burned through the air cycling pipes. There really wasn't much of a diff in cost from a repair and a replacement at that point.

I am lucky! I found a great A/C guy who doesn’t constantly upsell! In fact, I had to talk him into replacing my 16 year old cheap, “builder grade” heat pumps! Each unit was internally leaking coolant and had been costing me ~$600 a years for at least 5 years. Although he said he could squeeze a few more years out of it, I was in the rare situation that I had the money to do the work now and I figure that the cost would just be higher a few years later plus with the savings on the electric bill each month (the new system cut the bills in half, by the way), there was no real benefit in putting it off! Those old systems from the 1960-1980s were great in that they were built like tanks with copper and brass cooling parts that could be repaired if they started leaking, unlike all the thin aluminum used today. It wasn’t uncommon to see late 1960s units still running strong in the mid south in the early 2000s! The only downside to them was their lack of efficiency and high coolant recharge costs. I suppose most of the units that old have expired by now, from complete exhaustion if nothing else!

My heat pump has lasted since 1997! I have had a few parts replaced but other than that it runs great! Going on 27 years and still running great!

@yuriigorg721

9 ай бұрын

It’s amazing…. What brand is it ?

@Davidlinsay64

9 ай бұрын

I really think that one of the reasons it has lasted so long is it sets on the side of the house in the corner and the sunlight never hits it! It may mean nothing But I just have a feeling the sun and heat will take a toll on it if it was in the sunlight!@@yuriigorg721

Great Videos!!! I'd like to learn, "Intake and Filters". On a build/rebuild, should the Intake be at floor level or on the ceiling? I prefer my filters to be in the intake, oversized, and 2" to 4" thick. I eagerly await your expert knowledge.

True last home I never had it serviced by HVAC tech but this was Northern California and Carrier system new home 1992 to 2017 same working system that passed home inspection when sold. Now in South Texas and don't think I would get away with almost 25 years again with this heat and humidity.

I have a 27 year old rheem. AC. The rheem furnace is the same age also. Both work fine. I never have it looked at.

My Trane 24 years old and still going. Cleaning once a year, filters and every 10 years replace the contactor and capacitors. The only problem is R-22 refrigerant. It gets a lot of work here in Florida.

Thanks for the info! What do you think about hard / soft start capacitors? Are there any good thermostats that you recommend?

My Carrier AC is 28 years old and my Carrier Weathermaker 9200 is 21 yrs old. I've changed the capacitors a couple of times and stuck in a new contactor as preventative maintenance. I've toyed with replacing, but my wife says to wait till they quit....I take care of them. Who knows how long they'll go? I do keep spare capacitors on the shelf, just in case....$8 to $10.... I figure it's cheap insurance, and saves me from driving all over hell's half acre to ind the right one. I have no doubt both units would have been long gone if I wasn't a competent DIY'er

@markg999

4 ай бұрын

Keep it running...these newer models will not last like your old Carrier.

You promised some tips to help us extend the life of our A/C. A lot of talking but the only 2 tips mentioned was changing the air filter and conduct regular PM by calling a technician.

@rayburnyarborough4695

9 ай бұрын

Look into installing a radiant barrier in your home. It is a reflective insulation and can save you lots of money on your energy bill and reduce the strain on your HVAC

I used to live in far-West Texas and I take exception to the claim that we don't have many 105° days.

My parents have a 4ton Lennox Cirra 1983. Still running strong. Have always kept it at 65 in summers in Texas heat and it cycles on and off just fine. It’s because his cousin put it in oversized. 900 sqf house. Always over size more than what the idiots try to sell you. That 40 year old unit runs great.😊

@JensenSarpy

9 ай бұрын

That's impressive! I have a 1580 Sq. ft. house and will get a 5 Ton unit when the current 3.5 wears out. I believe in oversizing and it really works better that way.

@rayburnyarborough4695

9 ай бұрын

@@JensenSarpy You might want to do some more research my friend. My experience has always been that over sizing can cause unnecessary short cycling of the unit that wears it out faster. I installed a hotel/ motel type unit in the house I’m in. I decided to upsize it slightly, and turned out to be a mistake. It doesn’t remove the humidity like it should so I use an auxiliary dehumidifier. Not a huge deal for me. Other than that the unit works great. If I were you I would concentrate on your insulation package. I highly recommend installing a radiant barrier in conjunction with your other insulation, if you haven’t already. The last roll I purchased was $125 for 500sf. At the time I think the shipping was more than the product. All you have to do is lay it out over your existing insulation in your attic or staple it to the rafters. The double bubble is the ultimate. Innovative Insulation is the manufacturer in Texas. The product reflects the heat out of your house in the summer and reflects it back into your house in the winter. They are not all created equal either, when it comes to quality and price. I used to work at a fiberglass insulation factory. There’s no comparison whatsoever. I’ve had my own construction business for almost 40 years. I hope this helps! Besides much practical experience, I always do my homework! Take care!

Thank you for your work. 😊😊😊

My nephew works in this field and he just switched employees because his old one made them lie to customers to replace entire systems. He refused to lie to customers. This caused problems so he switched companies. On my own unit I replaced 2 capacitors and one fan motor. I set my own furnace ran my own duct work (laid out by the owner of the mechanical distributor). He also installed the line set to my system. I did the rest. When my system does go out again I will likely fix it again. Just like I am roofing my own house right now. Just like I rebuilt my outboard boat motor last month. I find all of this stuff to be pretty elementary. You can read a book over the weekend and know all you need to know in 90% of the situations. Well that doesn't apply to everyone. My brother in Law is a skill trade electrician and can't even light his own hot water heater.

Replaced my heat pump system today.😢😢 It was the original system from the 2004 house build. It's been repaired a few times and this summer the condenser gave us a lot of problems.

Been doing my own work on mine throughout the years. Condenser fans, capacitors, contractors, etc. When the AC guy wants $200 for a capacitor (service fee and overpriced cap) and I can get several for that price, I get some spares. I know I’m not normal. :)

We installed a Trane 4 ton unit back in 1991. It put in 25 years of service until (according to the service techs) the compressor innards started to break down and clog up the pipes. When the unit was replaced (different company) I got to see the clogged-up pipes--not pretty. My recollection is that Trane inherited the old GE operation for residential stuff. One thing to stay on top of is the capacitor setup--the old GE Pyranol PCB capacitors could last for decades, but since PCBs are now verboten, a different, less-durable capacitor chemistry is used. It seems that about 5 years is the average working life of a start/run capacitor. Ignoring replacement can be very hard on the compressor. Fortunately, capacitors are cheap--and most seem to originate in China nowadays.

My annual inspection last year showed a faulty furnace. Can't vomplson as it was nearly 30 years old. The AC was a decade younger. Decided it was more cost effective to replace both simulraneously. Yes, I'm paying for new system but heat bill alone has dropped. Electric has dropped a bit but not quite AC season yet. Will see.

Our rudd/Rheem is still going, installed in 1987! Only one professional repair. High pressure reset button rusted out...tech replaced the accumulator can on low side due to rust as PMCS. Thru the years a few contactor switches, fan motors & capacitors for the outside unit and a step down transformer for the air handler other than that it's been good except for the hillbilly install performed by local company. Back in the day it was no different then today; bam slam thank you wouldn't wanna be yew! Being poor pushed us to learn how to work on stuff we couldn't pay to have fixed...

My AC had an issue with cooling. The Technician found a pin hole leak witch he soldered shut. Recharged and now works great. But as always the Sales Pitch came out. I agree with another person that says, Technicians are Salespeople that repair AC units.

Do my own work. Only time I would hire an heating cooling guy is too come and check the freon and fill as necessary. I have all the tools to check everything, its not that complicated but takes time to run down issues. I run my A/C over 80 degrees but watch the humidity. I had a house in Michigan and I kept that furnace and A/C running for 24 years, still running when I sold and the system was 16 years old when I bought the place. Had one freon recharged in all that time.

I built a new home in 2008. I live in Iowa and installed geothermal. It is a Climate Master. Never had a problem with it.

In 2021 I replaced my HVAC system for my apartment in NYC. The installer, All AC & Heating, did a hack job installation. I had them reposition the new indoor coils and furnace to be inside the closet instead of the attic space, to better have access to that stuff in case of repairs. The installer passed through the ceiling the two 10 inch flex ducts, the 2 refrigerant lines, power cord, and thermostat cable, all together, through 1 big rough square hole, 2 feet by 2 feet, with sharp jagged edges (aluminum sheet ceiling area). So, 2 flex ducts touching each other, with cuts on them, and no seal between the closet space and the attic, allowing the system to draw in air from the attic space, and vermin and condensation, when the system is working, and letting conditioned air escape into the attic space when the system turns off, which would lessen the life of the system if left like that. He did cut out one hole just for the exhaust pipe, but made the hole too big with an unsealed air gap around the pipe. The spliced connections between the thermostat and the other components were left exposed instead of putting them in a junction box. I spent 7 weeks fixing all that before using the system the first time. I'm also in court suing the jerk off.

We have always had Trane units simply because our HVAC guy recommends them. We have several at work and home and the oldest was installed back in the 90s and still works. We have them serviced twice a year and cleaned.

@geod3589

5 ай бұрын

Conversely.. my Trane unit is 17 years old, only in past 6 months showing problems. The HVAC guys came out and when I mentioned replacing it with another Trane, they gave each other a funny look then explained how Trane has gone downhill. And the recommend other brands.

@afridgetoofar1818

13 күн бұрын

My Trane a/c lasted ten years before coil developed a leak

My 3 year old Trane system already had a leak in the handler.

Well, my Trane has lasted 23 years. I just replaced the circuitboard and a motor several years ago and that’s all I’ve done to it. Hard to stop a Trane!

Have a rooftop HVAC (Trane) unit in an hot summer inland valley in California. Had some technician come out to clean the ducts and he started trying to sell me a new unit. It was only 10 years old. That was 2015. I told him it was running fine and it still is. Lots of shady people out there.