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 first scenario occurs when the condenser starts leaking. The condenser has tubes and seals, both of which can leak with normal wear and tear. Since 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. How important is this service? In addition to your comfort, air conditioning systems add value to your vehicle. You should keep your AC fully operational. In some systems, the hot and cold air are blended to achieve the desired temperature setting. car air conditioning units for saleIn these cases, when the AC system fails, you will not only not get any cold air, but the entire temperature regulation is thrown off.do air conditioning units use water SEER: 3 Free Tools That Show You How Much You’ll Save with a New ACwhere is the filter on an ac unit So you’ve determined that you need a new air conditioner, and you’re well aware that SEER is a big deal when it comes to energy efficiency.

But you have no idea how much money you’ll save by picking one SEER rated air conditioner versus another.In other words, you have no idea how much a 14 SEER saves versus a 13 SEER, or an 18 SEER versus a 16 SEER--and so forth.How much you’ll save depends on several factors. But there are a few tools you can use to get a general sense--making shopping for a new air conditioner much easier.Here are 3 free tools that will empower you to estimate the savings you’ll get when picking one SEER rated air conditioner over another. 1) Annual Energy Savings Calculator from NATE Why this tool rocks: Simple and easy-to-useLets you see how much money you’ll save by picking one SEER over another when upgrading from your old system.Allows you to input the tonnage (cooling ability) of the unitWhat it‘s lacking: Can’t change the electric rate per kilowatt (measurement of the cost of electricity)No options for calculating based on your locationCan’t input the cost of the air conditioner to determine a break-even analysisBeginning SEER only goes as high as 12 SEER--limiting the comparisons you can make2) Energy Savings Calculator from Lennox

Visually engagingUnlike the NATE tool, you can compare higher rated SEER air conditioners to each otherGives you 5, 10 and 15-year savings (this is important because air conditioners typically last about 15 years according to Consumer ReportsLets you input the electric rate per kilowatt (measurement of the cost of electricity)Lets you calculate based on locationWhat it‘s lacking: Only lets you compare with 10 SEER rated air conditioners or higher (older air conditioners may be 8 SEER)Can’t input tonnageCan’t input the cost of the air conditioner to determine a break-even analysis3) Energy Usage and Payback Calculator (Excel File) From Energy Star More customization than other toolsGives you ability to input cost of air conditioner in order to see complete life cycle savingsLets you add number of air conditioner unitsLets you add electric rate per kilowattGives you option to calculate based on locationLets you see side by side comparisons of conventional vs Energy Star rated air conditionersWhat it‘s lacking:

Not visually engaging and it’s not easy-to-use (especially if you’re not familiar with Excel)Lacks guidance for beginners. This tool can be overwhelming and not helpful if you don’t have all the information needed to make an accurate calculationIn summary Hopefully these tools will empower you to see the savings each SEER rated air conditioner will provide to make your air conditioner shopping easier.Just remember than each tool is limited in how accurate it can be because there are many factors that determine your electric bill.To get a complete view of how much money you can save by upgrading from one SEER to another, contact Cool Today online for help.Cool Today provides award-winning air conditioning service to Sarasota, Bradenton, Port Charlotte, Tampa, Venice, North Port, and West Florida. Like what you've read? Get monthly specials and home comfort tipsInterior temperature and air quality are important elements of a healthy and comfortable home, so repeated problems with an aging or malfunctioning HVAC system should be addressed.

If the equipment needs frequent repairs, it may be less expensive in the long run to install a new unit. The life expectancy of an HVAC system varies by type and operating conditions. A heat pump or air conditioner that receives regular maintenance can be expected to last for at least 10 years; a boiler or furnace may reach 15 years of age or more before failing. Average Cost of HVAC Unit Replacement The cost of HVAC units varies greatly; pricing depends on a number of factors such as the size and type of system and the energy efficiency rating. In addition to the equipment itself, buyers must also consider the cost of installation and any required modifications to the building like additional ductwork. Replacing an existing system costs less than a new installation if there is already functional ductwork in place. Here are the most common types of HVAC equipment types and their average costs. Split systems consist of both indoor and outdoor components. The outdoor unit is an air conditioner to provide cooling;

the indoor unit is a furnace to produce heat. Split systems usually cost between $2,000 and $11,000; the average cost is $6,625. Costs will vary based on the type of units included. A central HVAC unit may cost as little as $1,000 or as much as $4,000 for a large unit; the average cost is $2,600. This system is an option for homes without existing ductwork. Costs for a ductless system range from $2,000 to $7,000; the average cost is $4,500. A standalone gas furnace typically costs between $1,000 and $5,000; the average cost is $2,400. Regular efficiency boilers range in price from $2,500 to $4,000 with an average cost of $3,250. High-efficiency models cost between $5,000 and $9,000 with an average cost of $7,000. Most air handlers cost between $1,000 and $3,500; the average price is $1,700. Commercial HVAC systems are much larger, and pricing will depend on the square footage of the building and other factors. Most commercial systems will cost more than $15,000.

The cost of installation is highly variable and depends on the type of system, the choice of contractor and the complexity of the required work. Installation charges for a typical home range from $3,000 to $6,000 with an average cost of about $4,700. Additional ductwork or repairs can increase the installation fees by several thousand dollars. In conclusion, the average homeowner can expect to pay between $5,000 and $11,000 for a completely installed HVAC system. Variables Affecting HVAC Replacement Cost HVAC Capacity is measured in BTUs and tons. These refer to a unit’s heating and cooling abilities. The square footage of the home, the local climate and other variables determine what size HVAC unit is required. More powerful units are more expensive, but installing a unit that does not have a high enough capacity can cause early equipment failure and increased energy costs. Energy efficiency is another important variable that affects cost. Air conditioners are assigned a seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER).

Alternative measurements for heat pump efficiency include the average fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) and the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). Higher ratings denote more efficient systems, and these generally cost more. However, they save homeowners money in the long run by using less energy. Each HVAC equipment retailer will have specific equipment and installation charges. Discounts and special offers may be available; it is advisable to check several different retailers to find the best prices. Major national brands may be more expensive than lesser-known ones. Before purchasing, buyers should thoroughly research brand names, models and available features to get the best quality system for their money. Programmable thermostats, air purifiers, humidity control features and UV lamps are optional features that will increase cost. Used or refurbished equipment may be available at a discounted price. Some complex systems may only need individual components or units replaced;