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The DIY HVAC Community
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4 contributions to The DIY HVAC Community
0 likes • 2d
Thanks Mike. Yeah, one can't go wrong with Fieldpiece. Accuracy is definitely important, but I was hoping that they offer less expensive digital gauges I could use on my own unit twice/yr. Manual is fine..math no problem. But, like a calculator, who in the hell wants to go backwards. Lolol. Probably will go manual Yellow... Sucks!! lol Thxs PS: David S posted a video on the VivoHome set for $159.00 and said they "seem" to work well, but is/was to followup with an updated video after have used several times. I might wait for that....
6d •
Soft Starter and Run Capacitor "interactions"
I installed a Micro-Air Soft Starter about 3 years ago. All was fine until recently I noticed through the app (thank goodness I checked it once in a while) that I had several "faults." I saw dielectric fluid through the clear plastic cover all inside, and the bottom of the capacitors were browned. Micro-Air said it was on it's last leg (Daa). However, I also noticed my dual run capacitor was fried!! The wire from the contractor to the common was melted, and I noticed the common post was lose and leaking fluid. Now, what I am trying to find out is what caused what? Has anyone experienced this or know what happened? I've done some research online and have yet get a clear cut answer. Any feedback would be much appreciated. I sense installed a new Cap and a new Nu-Calgon Nu-Start soft starter. Thanks!!
2 likes • 4d
@Mike Trader Thanks Mike. Yeh, I think is was a "bad" cap. The wires were not loose and the contactor was okay yet old...I hope it's not the compressor- It's only 7 years old, but never know. I might run some test on it, and if need get replaced under warranty (10-yr). What I did was: 1. Replaced the Cap, and all new termination connections. 2. Replaced the single pole 40 amp contactor. 3. Installed new soft starter. 4. Made sure all wires were in good condition and secure. After 3 weeks, so far, so good. Thanks for your response and advice. Jon
1 like • 3d
@Mike Trader No. The start up/compressor sounds normal. Yes, I too replace or do a thorough test on the cap ONCE a year. And your right, I remember my old system went 5-10 yrs w/o blowing the cap. I'm using either Amrad or Titan HD caps. Thxs
Sep 15 •
How to get EPA 608
Hi! I am a young homeowner (about 2 years now) and when my wife and I were getting the general inspection it was noted that our AC used R-22 refrigerant and might need to be replaced if it started leaking. After hearing how much it would cost to replace a system (and having some ideas of my own for improving IAQ) I have started down the road of getting prepared for a DIY replacement should that happen in the near future. From reading a few posts it sounds like getting the universal EPA 608 is a good first step. Are there any recommendations for online training courses that teach the material well? A quick search showed SkillCat but I am curious if anyone had any preferences. Thanks!
0 likes • 12d
@Jon Bianco Craig's book at AC Service Tech is excellent!! I bought one a while back. I'm almost as good as David S now!! lol :)
1 like • 16d
Yes. I am in Houston, TX where we EAT through AC's. lol. I've done the following on my 3-ton American Standard: 1. Installed a new Nu-Calgon Nu-Start soft starter 2. .Replaced my 40amp single pole contactor, and all my clips/connections 3. Replaced my 45/5 capacitor 4. Cleaned the condenser coil 5. Added about 5oz of R-410-A refrigerant (need to figure out why) :) 6. Installed a 10" door on/for my evaporator coil and cleaned it (because when my AC was replaced in 2018, the num-nuts never put in the door) 7. Ran some bleach through my condensate line (do every 3-4 months) 8. Also, replaced the ignitor and flame sensor in my furnace. 😊
0 likes • 16d
I also bought and sold some stocks!! lolol
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Active 1d ago
Joined Sep 30, 2026
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