Has Anyone Installed Their Own Split System AC?

[kenmac]

The lines must go as the pressure will be increased a great deal and will find any and all weak spots on the old lines.

I agree,100% Although it's not always possible. I've had cases where it was impossible to replace the lines and had to use the old stuff. When I do have use the old line sets, I test with nitrogen at higher pressures to see if it holds.. To be honest , some of the old copper is thicker than the new stuff. With higher pressures with 410A, it's best to replace the line sets if at all possible

 

[murphy1244]

I agree,100% Although it's not always possible. I've had cases where it was impossible to replace the lines and had to use the old stuff. When I do have use the old line sets, I test with nitrogen at higher pressures to see if it holds.. To be honest , some of the old copper is thicker than the new stuff. With higher pressures with 410A, it's best to replace the line sets if at all possible

Its the connections that get added on that I worry about but I agree its sometimes hard to replace a line set that's been stuccoed in.

 

[Dr Dave]

If the ac is that old, how about the furnace, or air handler? I would replace both at he same time. A package system will be much more efficient and trouble free.

I replaced my hvac unit about 10 years ago for $1800 its paid for its self 3 times in enegy savings!

Removed and installed in a weekend, the line set had to be silver soldered, compressor unit was precharged. You have to pull a vacuum, check for leaks and adjust the charge, I did my own since I had the equiptment and im certified.

My stepdad installed his own also, and had the final connections and charging done by a contractor for leaks$250
His system was 2k delivered to his home. He reseived bids from 8-9k to have a system installed.

Dave

 

[murphy1244]

Those R-22 units are long gone replaced by R410A which bumped up the pressures big time.

 

[kenmac]

Those R-22 units are long gone replaced by R410A

Which will Possibly be replaced by 407C

 

[murphy1244]

Which will Possibly be replaced by 407C

You think? how soon ?

 

[kenmac]

You think? how soon ?

Don't know when it will be, but a replacement for 410A refrigerant is in the works. Talk is it will more than likely be 407C

 

[Travelover]

If the ac is that old, how about the furnace, or air handler? I would replace both at he same time. A package system will be much more efficient and trouble free.
..........
Dave

The furnace is just 3 years old. In the past I've almost never needed AC, thus the 1972 model lasting so long. These days we seem to be having more week long 90's weather with high humidity. Knowing this now, I should have done a package deal.

Those R-22 units are long gone replaced by R410A which bumped up the pressures big time.

Alpine still has R-22 units for sale, though I hate to buy something that will have super expensive refrigerant in a few years.

Example: Goodman GSC130301-DRY 2.5 Ton, 13 SEER Condenser, For R-22 Refrigerant Use (Unit is Uncharged)

I know there is a raging controversy over the Goodman brand, but for me and my usage, I think it would be good enough.

 

[Travelover]

The change to 410A will have a much larger coil to use in the Furnace.

Good tip - this is exactly what I was wondering.

 

[brin]

The furnace is just 3 years old. In the past I've almost never needed AC, thus the 1972 model lasting so long. These days we seem to be having more week long 90's weather with high humidity. Knowing this now, I should have done a package deal.

Alpine still has R-22 units for sale, though I hate to buy something that will have super expensive refrigerant in a few years.

Example: Goodman GSC130301-DRY 2.5 Ton, 13 SEER Condenser, For R-22 Refrigerant Use (Unit is Uncharged)

I know there is a raging controversy over the Goodman brand, but for me and my usage, I think it would be good enough.

I have used Goodman HVAC units for over 20 yrs. in my home and rental properties...I have had nothing but good service from them and for me they have just as dependable as the name brand units....I would buy another one if the need arises.