Subscribe in a reader Enter your email address:Delivered by FeedBurner Book of the Week: The Millionaire Next Door More Bad News on Retirement What's the Top Financial Stress in Your State? You Can Retire Early on an Average Income Star Money Articles for Week of September 19 Save a Ton by Having Your Wedding on a Thursday Why People Quit Their Jobs Star Money Articles for Week of September 12 Any information shared on Free Money Finance does not constitute financial advice. The Website is intended to provide general information only and does not attempt to give you advice that relates to your specific circumstances. You are advised to discuss your specific requirements with an independent financial adviser. Per FTC guidelines, this website may be compensated by companies mentioned through advertising, affiliate programs or otherwise. All posts are © 2005-2012, Free Money Finance.What is the AC Condenser all about? The AC system has many key components: compressor, condenser, receiver dryer, evaporator, and hoses.

For an AC system to work, it needs a gas or liquid substance called refrigerant, (R-12 Freon in older cars, R-134a in 1995 and newer cars).The job of an AC condenser is to convert the AC gas into a liquid form by cooling it. There are two common causes of condenser failure. the right size ac unitThe first scenario occurs when the condenser starts leaking. how much is new air conditioning unitThe condenser has tubes and seals, both of which can leak with normal wear and tear. how much does it cost to have ac unit cleanedSince there is no way to replace these tubes and seals, you will need a new condenser. Keep in mind this can also be caused by physical damage as the condenser is mounted near the front of the car and as such is susceptible to rocks or other road debris.

In the second scenario, the condenser is unable to circulate the refrigerant due to metallic debris blockage. This debris is often the result of a failing or defective AC compressor where internal parts of the compressor come apart and disperse metallic debris throughout the system. If this is the case, you will not only need a new condenser, but also a new AC compressor, orifice tubes, and receiver dryer. When the AC condenser is replaced, the compressor, orifice tubes, and receiver dryer often have to be replaced as well. Any refrigerant that has not leaked out will need to be vacuumed out. Install an AC gauge set to measure the pressure. Inspect the condenser for leaks. If condenser is bad, remove all of the refrigerant. Remove and replace condenser. Evac and recharge the AC system. Leak check for any system leaks. Check for proper operation of the AC system. The AC system is a sealed unit. It is not something you will inspect or service unless you notice a change.

If you notice a change in the temperature of the air through the AC vents (not as cold as it should be), schedule an inspection. What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the AC Condenser? Air conditioning is not as cold as it should be. Air conditioning does not work at all.In these cases, when the AC system fails, you will not only not get any cold air, but the entire temperature regulation is thrown off.Household Tips and Resources Rebates through Hawaii Energy Calculate Appliance Operating Costs Energy Saving for Businesses RFP - Grid Services Demand Side It's very important that you select the right sized unit for your home. An undersized unit will not have the ability to effectively handle the heat in your room, causing the unit to overwork and not perform optimally. On the other hand, an oversized unit can cool a room quickly, but can create a "cold and clammy" feel due to the humidity levels that aren't lowered properly.  We have provided a quick and easy guide to selecting a proper-sized air conditioner to fit your needs.

1. Compute the Area of the Room: Assumes an 8-foot ceiling. (Use Tab key to advance to the next field) 2. Select your Air Conditioning Needs: In what environment will you be using your air conditioner? Low Heat or Night Time Only - windows/exterior walls mostly shaded from direct sunlight, well-insulated construction. Good figure for bedrooms or apartments in well-constructed high-rise buildings. Normal Conditions - windows/exterior walls moderately (50-70%) exposed to direct sunlight, ceiling with attic space above. High Heat or Direct Sunlight - large window and wall area exposed to direct sunlight, heavy afternoon sun, and open beam ceilings. (Use your mouse to select the appropriate choice) Low Heat or Night Time Only High Heat or Direct Sunlight Consider an Air Conditioner with a BTU rating within the range to Note: Add 4,000 BTUs if the area includes a kitchen 3. Compute the Monthly Usage Hours: How much will this unit cost to operate?

The Energy Efficiency Ratio, or EER rating, tells you how efficient the appliance is in energy consumption. The higher the number rating, the more energy-efficient it is. Here is an example of how much it would cost to run your selected unit if it had an 8, 10, or 11 EER rating: Estimate length the A/C will be on: 4. Select Service Area for Monthly Energy Cost by EER: For other service areas, specify cents per kWh Your Energy Cost should be between: * EER value for box A can be changed to illustrate costs of Air Conditioners with other EER ratings. ** Default cost per kWh is based on the average residential rates for customers on Oahu and Maui Island, as of July 2008. Sizing of a room air conditioner depends on many factors, such as area of room, ceiling height, number of occupants, insulation and type of construction. We recommend you consult with the sales person at the showroom you visit to be sure that the size selected will meet your individual requirements.