"Submariner" wrote in message
...
On Tue, 30 Mar 2004 17:09:36 -0800, "Rod McInnis"
wrote:

Bottom line: It generally isn't worth repairing a "self contained"
refrigeration unit (A/C, refrigerators, etc). If you can pick it up and
carry it off, take it to a proper disposal station and go buy a new one.


Rod McInnis


I'm gearing more towards replacing the unit. It's 20 years old, so a
leak in the evaporator is probably imminent, as is a failure of the
fan motor and controls at some point in time.......Even if I replace
everything myself, I'm looking at $300 in parts alone. If one of the
other parts fails, then add $200 here, and $200 there, and I'm over
half way to a new unit with digital controls, better fail-safe
mechanisms, a dehumidifying circuit, etc.

Indeed, there's more to it than just replacing a component; removing
the refrigerant, removing the old compressor, installing the new
compressor (and possibly the reversing valve), vacuuming the system
down, charging it, etc. This quote was for carry-in service by the
way.

I priced the compressor: $238 for the identical replacment. The
reversing valve: $78. So $300 for parts, against $1,800 for the
service if both parts were replaced. $1,400 for a few hours labor is
pricey. Perhaps I'm in the wrong business.......... 8)

Thanks for the input...........


The Freon is going to cost you a big bunch. $$$ per ounce.
Bill