Sly Bald Guys Forum

Various Non-Bald Discussions => General Discussion => Topic started by: Razor X on June 05, 2011, 03:02:05 PM

Title: Air conditioner repair
Post by: Razor X on June 05, 2011, 03:02:05 PM
I had major problems with my air conditioner last summer, which required a few new parts including a new circuit board and a new motor for the fan.  Today, to my great dismay, I noticed that it wasn't working properly yet again.   >:( >:( >:(  However, I think the problem might be a minor one and I thought perhaps someone here might know the answer I'm looking for.

I just went outside and checked the compressor.  The valve (is that the correct term?   :-\ :-\ ) that connects to the hose that runs to the house was completely encased in a block of ice.  I seem to remember that this was the problems on one of the occasions last year when I had the repairman come out.  I was at work when he came; my dad came over and handled things for me.  As I recall, it was a relatively easy fix, but I can't remember what it was.  I think it may have been caused by an obstruction that caused the ice to form, which in turn, prevents the air from coming through the vents inside the house.   I chipped away as much of the ice as I could with a hammer.  I turned the unit off and the rest seems to be melting.  I'll switch it back on once the ice is completely melted.   I vaguely remember something about the need to switch the fan to the ON position instead of AUTO.   Is there anything else I should try?
Title: Re: Air conditioner repair
Post by: tomgallagher on June 05, 2011, 04:01:44 PM
Looks like I am in the same boat Razor but my compressor is done for. I wish I could help you out.
Title: Re: Air conditioner repair
Post by: Razor X on June 05, 2011, 04:24:46 PM
Looks like I am in the same boat Razor but my compressor is done for. I wish I could help you out.

Ouch!  Sorry to hear that, Tom.  When mine went on the fritz last year I was afraid it was the compressor, but luckily it wasn't.  It was an expensive enough project to get it fixed as it was.
Title: Re: Air conditioner repair
Post by: D.A.L.U.I. on June 05, 2011, 06:23:44 PM
Something in the back of my head says that it has to do with a low freon--or whatever they use now--so it may require a tech visit.  The other issue--have you cleaned your filiters or changed them recently?  Also, make sure that the evaporator coils outside aren't blocked up with leaves or general grim--put a nozzle on the hose--turn off the unit and spray the coils until they're clear.
Title: Re: Air conditioner repair
Post by: TheSlyBear on June 05, 2011, 07:44:44 PM
My downstairs A/C unit sh*t the bed earlier this year. I'll be paying for the new unit for some time to come. Ouch!
Title: Re: Air conditioner repair
Post by: Razor X on June 05, 2011, 08:01:45 PM
Something in the back of my head says that it has to do with a low freon--or whatever they use now--so it may require a tech visit.  The other issue--have you cleaned your filiters or changed them recently?  Also, make sure that the evaporator coils outside aren't blocked up with leaves or general grim--put a nozzle on the hose--turn off the unit and spray the coils until they're clear.

I tried all that already -- changed the filter and hosed off the coils, etc but it still seems to ice up whenever I switch it back on.  I went down in the basement and the part where I think the coolant is stored seems to be dripping something when it's turned on.  I'll have to try and get somebody out here in the morning to take a look at it.  Luckily it isn't too hot here at the moment. 
Title: Re: Air conditioner repair
Post by: tomgallagher on June 06, 2011, 04:22:42 AM
Keep us posted Razor.