Do it Yourself: Re: [DIY] A/C Leaking

10 July 2013

Re: [DIY] A/C Leaking

In all probability it is condensate and is either coming from a rusted out condensate catch pan on the "A" coil or a condensate drain that is clogged. I just opted to replace our working AC unit myself because it is about 30 years old and we can not live with out AC in the extremes of summer. I was able to get a new 3 ton Rheem condenser on line for 1,300+ which included a 10 lb canister of R-22 as the units are shipped dry. You could probably save quite a bit with a new high efficiency furnace and AC but be prepared to pay around 5,000 for the complete change out, but you would have the added comfort of the warranties that come with all new units. I fortunately can do all the work myself but with the new 90% furnace and coil which we installed several years ago and now the new Condenser unit I will have about 2,300 invested and that leaves nothing for labor.

Dale in the Flatlands. "Why waste time learning when ignorance is instantaneous."

nan8136 wrote:

My furnace and a/c are probably over 20 years old. House is a three bedroom ranch, not huge. Today I noticed the basement carpet was wet. The rug has been pulled up and the padding thrown out. It was the foam type and saturated. The affected area is maybe 10' square total, but not square of course. It is around a corner behind which the furnace and a/c sit in the unfinished basement. I just found the problem about two hours ago. My son was here and pulled the carpet up.

Now two hours later I can see a few steams of water coming under or through the drywall and baseboard. Furnace repair guy is to come tomorrow. The a/c is running and keeping me cool so I don't know why/where it's leaking.

I'm widowed and don't want to be ripped off. But since the units are so old do you think it's time for replacement? Any advice you can give will be greatly appreciated.

I have fans blowing over the rolled up two year old carpet. I will have it relaid with new padding later. We've lived here for 40+ years and have never had a water problem till now with my rather new carpet. I suppose I should have the carpet cleaned when it's back in place.

Nancy