Save Hundreds Doing The MOST COMMON Air Conditioner Repair YOURSELF.

[@MCW1955]

I keep a spare capacitor and contactor on hand. Maybe $30 worth of parts. This has saved me twice. One company wanted $500 to replace one!!! Nice video.

[@Chris-fo8wp]

Somebody who actually knows the system and how to troubleshoot!!! Outstanding job of describing the process!!

[@billiamc1969]

I have watched all your videos and learned through you how to work on all my own AC equipment...HUGE RESPECT from Baltimore

[@diyhvacguy]

Thanks brother. I’m glad they have helped you out! 👊🏼

[@anthonynguyen8031]

I really appreciate you filming step by step and not cutting anything out. It helps us new guys understand better!

[@kylegilmore8049]

Very informative videos, you are a great instructor! Since subscribing to your channel, I have cleaned my coils, installed a hard start kit, and replaced my capacitor! Thank you, sir.

[@diyhvacguy]

Awesome! Glad the videos have been helpful for you 👍🏼

[@adamburnette]

2 out of 3 of my units have went down this year and this was the fix. $11 and $20 on Amazon. I also have a couple on backup. I had it back up and running within a couple hours of knowing that I had a problem. install takes minutes.

[@ua7pyro591]

These kind of videos are what everyone needs. Thank you. Tired of the bs companies

[@Shorty_Lickens]

just so everyone knows: the capacitor that came with your A/C is almost always Builder Grade, which is the absolute minimum quality that still technically passes any laws in your state or county for construction. That is also what just about every professional A/C technician uses because they are not only trying to save money on repair parts, but also they want to see you as frequently as possible for more jobs, which means many of them want to use a part they know will go bad sooner. If you learn to do it yourself, get something slightly better than builder grade and you'll have to worry about it less frequently. The funny thing is quality capacitors are only slightly more expensive and they save you so much money in the long run. BUT, you will need a multimeter that checks capacitance and those are usually around 50 dollars.

[@donfayetteville3582]

As a DYI with 63 SFH's in ATL can I say this. Whenever the cover comes off the compressor I push the contactor spring to be sure it's working-- sometimes the contactor, when pushed, the unit will come to life. That rules out the capacitor. Now you can concentrate on that side of the system contactor or 12 volt pull down. (check for ants or spider nests) Just like we do for toilet plumbing issues we change out parts. By that I mean we don't do testing on $10.95 capacitors. So if the contactor is pulling down and unit doesn't come on- NEW cap. 100% of the time. My plumbing reference: when I look into a toilet tank and replace a flapper for example-- I also do the fill valve and do it on all toilets in the home. For 20.00 I avoid calls for years. AC same way. I love the simplicity of your video's. Home owners are so blinded by HVAC when in fact its really a series type mechanism. By that I mean there is a direct order of operation-- this must happen for the next item to happen -- so on.

[@garyfuller6539]

Happened to me. Exact symptoms. Called the local HVAC guy. $89 diagnostic fee. I had already watched videos. Assumed it was the capacitor. He quoted me $500.00. I said no thank you. Ordered the replacement capacitor from Amazon, got it delivered early this morning. Installed it in a few minutes. Saved $500. Thanks for the advice.

[@jackb47581]

Thank you my friend, from and old and long retired electrician. You know your stuff!

[@diyhvacguy]

Thanks for the support!!

[@jasonbengel]

Great video! Thanks for distributing your experience! You gave me an idea to check the draw on my compressor, which feels like it's approaching failure just based on the increased sound (already proactively installed a hard-start capacitor a few years ago). Still hoping to replace my own system, but doubt I'll get the trust from my spouse unless it's in the dead of winter!

[@diyhvacguy]

You know where to find me if you decide to tackle it and need help! Patreon.com/diyhvacguy Cheers

[@bryanditol4562]

Dave. Good job showing simple maintenance. God Bless!

[@davidryle]

Good info here. Replaced my Caps (run & start on mine...it's older) and the contactor silver was pitted. Runs great now.

[@FrenchieFrench1555]

I love each one of your videos , I learn so much . Thank you so much from a neighbor in SLC.

[@davidkazakov6232]

I had to replace capacitor on rental and paid $350, because it was bit urgent in 105 degree heat. They also wanted $200 for outside coil cleaning, I said hell no. After that, I did coil cleaning on 4 HVAC units in less than 5 hours and spent like $30 on coil cleaners, all were pretty dirty. Now will replace capacitor myself for sure, another skill learned!

[@festival3rocker]

note when using meters in an industrial environment, I've gotten in the habit of checking the meter first - even just for continuity as I've had a bad meter before that was handed back to me by someone else helping who accidentally blew the fuse and didnt let me know so I was trying to troubleshoot and not getting any readings at all. Almost shocked myself but luckily I had a second meter that saved the day and luckily fuses arent too difficult or expensive to replace in the fluke brand meters at least.

[@danlah1303]

Nice to see some tips to check other possible root causes besides replace the cap.

[@glendurant911]

yes i agree your video format step by step is perfect and what DIY need for understanding further indepth.

[@bradmcclendon4597]

Excellent vid! Thanks for the detailed walk through! I have watched several of you vids and am going to get some of the gear you recommended so I can service my AC units!

[@rfphill]

I just paid 500 dollars to have 2 capacitors replaced on the hottest day if the year. I had a feeling those were a routine replace and easy to diy. I was ignorant about ACs, but not any longer!

[@diyhvacguy]

Your welcome :) cheers friend

[@joecooksey4331]

Last year just as preventive maintenance I swapped out my cap and put on a hard start using amrad. The last thing I want is no AC in central Texas during the summer.

[@curtw8827]

Pick one rated 440 volts rather than 370. Peak of the 230 volt waveform is 325 volts, 440 rated will last longer.

[@SuperDrake79]

I work on FAA tower lighting controllers and the Xenon systems that predate LED use capacitors for up to 1000VDC storage and depending on manufacture they could be the common replacement item.

[@hitekrednek66]

Glad to see your biz is good and you got some help. He is very lucky to be getting to be an apprenticeship under you sir. More great content! Stay safe and hydrated. Keep the content coming.

[@diyhvacguy]

Thanks brotha! Yea we have a good time 🤣

[@fwagoner]

Excellent teacher!!

[@Bill_CBR]

I'm curious, how much did you charge the customer for the capacitor? In S. FL, it would be $175 to $200 plus the minimum call charge of $165. BTW, it was great to see you do a "total call". You checked other things while you're there. That just doesn't happen here in S. FL.

[@craigcwillard]

Hey. I watched your previous video and changed out mine as a preventive maint. Condenser is 12 years. Thanks

[@diyhvacguy]

Nice work!

[@petersmart1999]

Just had one yesterday,35/5 open on both sides!

[@luismarty1685]

Thank you, Mr. HVAC guy.

[@JavierGonzalez-ft4mp]

thanks for your information about the capacitor!! I really like your channel

[@diyhvacguy]

You are very welcome! Thanks so much for the support!

[@TCT-Walt.B]

Great videos. Thank you for sharing your expertise!

[@munozinni]

Hello sir Gracias for sharing this video it was very educational for me I found it fascinating the amount of knowledge that you have very skilled even to teach others like me who doesn’t know kwak about air conditioners repairs 😢…I try to stay focused on your explaining the diagnosis and the repair process I also noticed that you take pride on your work…by checking on the whole unit for properly working conditions other contractors just look at it and said ain’t got paid for that!!! More money for the next repair…you guys take the extra effort to make the video way up on the roof wich I think is not that easy to deal with heights been on the roof All that I can do for now is keep supporting your KZbin channel watching the videos to the end with the commercials ads included and give a like comment and sharing with friends…I hope my support will be of any help and I thank you once again for sharing your skills and help us with our air conditioning system, you know I know how to do basic car mechanic work on my vehicles but for something serious I know it’s better to call the professionals and I will do the same on the air conditioning area all that we learned from you I will put it on practice but for some out of my reach or level of knowledge I will call the professional if you were here in the DFW Texas area no doubt that we will be calling you and recommending you with others…Gracias once again!!! You have a great day now!!! Saludos!!👋😃👋

[@diyhvacguy]

Thank you so much for the comments and the support! You have no idea how much I appreciate them! It’s people like you that make doing this so enjoyable for me. I wish I was in DFW, I’d take you out for a beer 🍻 cheers friend

[@thomasg4324]

*ESPECIALLY FOR ROOFTOP UNITS:* Install a water misting system to reduce the current load. It will significantly increase efficiency, and longevity of the unit....especially the compressor & capacitor.

[@joeyd2105]

$65 service call, $40 for the cap. $105 out the door, Small mom & pop company, Here in FL. The fancier the service/install rig and possibly name recognition ,the more the consumer is going to pay. Also your location matters. Bigger the city, higher the cost.

[@toddiamhvact7386]

If this was still the 90s those prices are good

[@joeyd2105]

Titusville fl. All day, everyday.

[@garysilver718]

Wish you were around when I installed my own air conditioner. That was back in 1972.

[@garysilver718]

My daughter called me at work and said her air conditioner wasn’t working. I could hear someone was with her and it was her 5 yr. Old . I told her to go over to the furnace and on the side of the furnace there was a switch about eye level with her son if it’s down it’s off up is on. She came back and said thanks dad.

[@rksg2003]

This guy actually cares about us non certified diy folks. A couple of your videos have showed up in my feed lately. I’m new subscriber as of today.. I do have a question I have split unit and the part under my home crawl space has a lot of condensation on it that drips. I pulled the cover checked and cleaned the plastic drain lines and internal drain pan. It only does this during the hottest part of summer. The unit and house are 3 years old. Do you think a whole house dehumidifier is what I need like an aprilaire unit? I noticed it’s also wet damp around one if the floor registers….. thanks😊

[@diyhvacguy]

Wow you must live in a very humid climate! I’m not sure what to tell you on that but a dehumidifier seems like a great start!

[@RNN24]

Thanks for sharing, educational and entertaining in one video. I really enjoy it. Thanks!

[@dsdorazio]

Is this a RUN Capacitor, a START Capacitor, and how would we know which to purchase or keep on-hand?

[@SteveM-426]

Are all Capacitors created equal or some Brands better than others? Awesome Video!

[@FixthisCD]

difficult part around here is getting the parts. Only place to get them is an HVAC company and they are normally pretty high and people don't want to wait 2 days for Amazon when their AC is out

[@FixthisCD]

I do carry the booster pack

[@grants169]

I have 2 AC units on my house and every other year I have to replace a capacitor in one or the other. It usually blows on the first hottest day of the year, sometime in late June.

[@overthinker1844]

Sounds like your electrical service has a lot of power surges.

[@TheJakeRobinson]

Years ago, I learned how to at least replace my capacitor - it saved me several hundred dollars and I've done it at least two times over the years. I also had a bad fan design where the nuts that kept the fan on were offset causing a serious load basically warping around the axle. I had two units with exactly the same model. Because it was under warranty I was able to get the new redesigned fan blade and replaced both of them. Another time I replaced a dead fan motor. Prob close to $4k or more savings by learning to DIY - I appreciate your videos QUESTION: Do you save money with a soft start on the electricity used? Or does it just basically the same amount of power just spread out over a longer period of time? I understand the real savings is taking the load off the motor and being able to use a generator - but does the power consumption go down? Cheers

[@keything8487]

i like that capacitor. im sure itll come in handy.....a bit pricey, but you cant carry every kind on your van. and the customer will pay for the AC to work .

[@curiosity2314]

Nice work and complete.

[@PrincessAlexisfuntime]

I always love these videos where you take us to the field on a real job! I learn so much! On the fan motor running amps FLA, the schematic didn’t have any labels for the yellow cable. How did you know to choose that cable to measure the running amps?

[@diyhvacguy]

Actually what I should have done to make it easier is just clamped the wire that goes to F on the capacitor. That probably would have been less confusing :)

[@keovongvilaykeo4799]

Always great 👍 😊thank you

[@dennissalisbury496]

Think of changing capacitors like automotive oil changes.

[@crewmax4240]

Thank-you for this video!

[@diyhvacguy]

You are so welcome!

[@Pipefitter310]

When I checked my original capacitor the red wire was attached to herm and blue wire was attached to fan. Any thoughts??? And it runs fine..

[@brothermine2292]

The rooftop HVAC on our 8-story condo building fails every year or two, and the technician says the unit isn't beefy enough for our building, causing the condensors to fail. Is there a way to make them last longer? There's no air recirculation, so the HVAC has to work hard in winter & summer, even though it only conditions the air in the building's hallways.

[@vinodpatel3706]

Hello sir can you install icm870 soft start horizontal? Because I don’t have enough space

[@brandonwilliams2064]

Hi, what insulation did you use on the line set? Could you please share the name/brand etc.?

[@locutz]

you should touch on relays next bro

[@kriskoppy2753]

Just did this today. Unit quit yesterday, ordered the capacitor overnight and fixed it today. 5 minute job.

[@diyhvacguy]

Amazing

[@GNX157]

What is the diameter of the ac line insulation? Any particular brand to get over another?

[@user-uc8rc9vn1q]

I wish if you can do a video about dirty socks syndrome ... on my furnace i did set ion generator i wave r i also put uv light on to of the coils i changed the air filter to merv 8 but all this won't solve the issue

[@beckamarie2438]

I have a freon leak and my a/c is 14 years old! It's a 3 T but not keeping up with 110 temp! I was quoted 10-15 for a 4 T that can work with humidity? Is this good? Don't mind paying but I want to make a good choice! 😊

[@diyhvacguy]

I offer remote services over at Patreon.com/diyhvacguy. I can give you my opinion if you got a few bids on which company to use and which to steer clear of. Knowledge is power!

[@beckamarie2438]

It's okay! I've already committed on the estimate! Not a whole lot to choose from where I live!

[@bignicnrg3856]

Awesome video!!! Love this channel!!! 👍💯

[@diyhvacguy]

Thanks so much

[@natersalad889]

Im capable of replacing parts, but finding the parts and being able to buy the parts is an issue... seems like most HVAC parts are sold at pricate companies that only licensed people or companies can buy from them...how do us normal people get around this?

[@mplscarsales6652]

They have universal capacitors

[@diyhvacguy]

Repairclinic.com 👍🏼 I need to do a video about this website. It’s awesome you just punch in the model or serial number and it gives you a list of common repair components for that exact unit.

[@allanbrito13]

HVAC tech here. Some supply houses sell to homeowners

[@samhatfield919]

Amazon

[@natersalad889]

​@diyhvacguy ok thanks I'll definitely save that link for future use

[@alk734]

I have question for any expert, I want replace my 1/10 hp condenser fan with 1/4 hp, with same rpm, is it OK? I will make sure put new capacitor that is rated for 1/4 hp fan Thanks

[@bmiller1958]

Very helpful. Thanks.

[@mkx612]

What if capacitor has electricity ? Will crossing the terminals actually defuse it.?

[@diyhvacguy]

Yes

[@lgroves336]

well done

[@andy-ti9zf]

it seems common to see 4-500 bills for a capacitor replacement. when its 110 degrees and you are hot what are you gonna do?

[@diyhvacguy]

Yea it’s absolutely insane. I just heard of a guy who was quoted 2000 for a capacitor and 3000 for the fan motor. Who in their right mind would just pay that??

[@chaingroupy]

What kind/brand of thermal insulation is that?

[@brothermine2292]

Did you verify that 35/5 is the correct dual capacitor for that HVAC model? The verification step isn't shown in the video.

[@diyhvacguy]

I didn’t, I’ve actually replaced that cap several years ago, but it would be good to make a video showing how to determine what size cap is needed if the label is worn off or missing. Thanks for the input!

[@brothermine2292]

@@diyhvacguy : Even if the old capacitor's label isn't worn off or missing, it might not be the correct capacitor. Some other technician might not have had the correct one and instead installed one that was handy. Are you sure you want to trust that the old cap was correct?

[@florentinequack]

Just had a hard start kit and capacitor placed on a 15yr American Standard 3ton 14 seer. Should I be expecting to replace this soon?

[@diyhvacguy]

It’s never hurts to plan for it as it’s 15 years old but no one can say how many more seasons you will get unfortunately. I’ve seen hard start kits extend the life by 5+ years.

[@florentinequack]

@@diyhvacguy I hope so. What brand do you recommend as a workhorse for HOT n HUMID weather? Will probably run it 10 months out the year….with some off/on periods for Nov-Jan.

[@deanmartin1966]

Great video. Nice job

[@jleonardoperez5402]

What I wish to have is to be able to replace warranty Parts as a DIY

[@jleonardoperez5402]

Yup - I need a TXV and its a warranty part, but I will need to PAY a HVAC guy which sometime will mess it up even more. .lol

[@acdii]

Where can a DYI get R410a for repairing and recharging their AC?

[@diyhvacguy]

Abilityrefrigerants.com 👍🏼

[@cutum]

Perhaps one of you pros could tell me why they identify the compressor as H? I know what hermetic or hermetically sealed means, but why does the industry annotate as such?

[@hvac_double_agent]

Probably the exact same reason we call sheet metal boxes Plenums idk 🤷🏼‍♂️ 😂

[@wanaraz]

Can you let us know about pricing in general?

[@diyhvacguy]

Like how much my service calls cost or?

[@wanaraz]

@@diyhvacguy That and more. Like replacing a capacitor or a Motor or what ever you do so we have a general idea. Repairs and such.Thanks.

[@demetriosa7646]

I checked my capacitor for my 2.5 ton Rheem condenser and noticed I only had 40μf single phase capacitor installed in my unit. Just wondering why it wouldn’t be dual stage so it can also assist the fan motor. I’m assuming a dual stage capacitor would be better for an AC condenser??

[@revealingfacts4all]

some units have two separate capacitors. one for the compressor and a smaller in size one for the fan. are you sure you only have one capacitor in the unit?

[@demetriosa7646]

@@revealingfacts4all it was brought to my attention that my unit has a ECM motor for the fan so you don’t need a capacitor for that just the condenser!

[@carrybigspeaksoft1758]

Does a soft start make the capacitor last longer?

[@TheDragorin]

it prevents the system from pulling so many amps when the compressor starts which can dramatically increase the lifespan.

[@Try2-Imagine]

On the high end this is a $250 service call including the Cap.

[@MrTiger0002]

I'm wondering if you can help me. I got a 1986 Carrier AC only air handler. I think the air speed is too high so I need to lower the fan speed. I looked at the control board and I don't see any jumpers. I do see two male spade and the third one has a wire on it. Is that how fan speed is changed by moving the wire to different spade?

[@diyhvacguy]

The older ones typically have different wire colors based on different fan speeds. As much as I’d love to help through here it’s really hard. If you need some tech support feel free to sign up for our remote assistance membership. That can be found at Patreon.com/diyhvacguy Hope we can help.

[@MrTiger0002]

@@diyhvacguy Thank you. I think I need to look at the wiring schematic. I didn't look at it.

[@gedudeoo5]

Do you have a temp sensor on the evaporator ?

[@diyhvacguy]

The gauges give you a ballpark temp of your Evap coil, based on the pressures going out to the evaporator. They’re generally pretty spot on. You are looking for about 40 degree Evap temp 👍🏼

[@diyhvacguy]

But if you were to look at a reg set of analog gauges, you’d read the low side pressure, and then you’d see what temperature it intersects with on the scale that matches that type of refrigerant. So for this unit, I would match the pressure with the r22 scale and it would give me the Evap coil temperature 👍🏼 if you want more info on that, watch my video specifically about manifolds and how to read pressures. Cheers man

[@MindzEnt]

Don't forget, once you touch your unit the warranty cancels.

[@takenusername]

40 degree coil I wish

[@elmona_ltakef]

Good

[@rickski3769]

I'm kinda a DIY'er.....but I would hire you instead for sure..‼

[@Vgk36]

Can I pay you to guide me through these checks? I’m working through your videos to get me up to speed. I’m a mechanic not an HVAC guy lol. 8:29

[@diyhvacguy]

Sure we have a remote assistance membership at Patreon.com/diyhvacguy Hope we can help!

[@Vgk36]

@@diyhvacguy That's awesome! Please keep putting out content ! Even if you just talk about tools you like using that don't break the budget and still work. I don't like doing house stuff because I'm a car guy and I literally have no more room for tools! lol Need a bigger garage😁

[@morallyinsane7639]

Now for the truth, a typical volt meter with a UF reader costs over $250, which as a DYI person, you need to invest in, then you have to know what to look for, granted capacitors are relatively inexpensive, and range from $15-$35, but the universal that he showed is about $60. Be prepared to buy online, because no HVAC supply house sells to the general public, which will increase cost.

[@SilverBackELTorro]

You giving the secrets away Bro. They have to pay to play. 😂 😂😂😂. Awesome video man.

[@diyhvacguy]

Lol

[@brianralph5036]

can anyone buy a capacitor or do you need an HVAC license.

[@jaysonbohnert6373]

You can find them online. That's where I bought mine. You don't need a license.

[@diyhvacguy]

Amazon baby just punch in the size and you’ll find the right one

[@MrKennyaa]

or take a picture with your phone, before you start pulling wires off .

[@tacotimeracing6638]

Not watching the video, but I will say the best thing you can do is take a picture of cap, and its label and order one or buy one locally to have on hand because it will go out at the worst possible time or day and the local supply house is closed. (not sure if he mentions it LOL) Same thing if you have a gas furnace you need to have a replacement thermocouple sitting inside the furnace so you can replace it when you wake up Christmas morning freezing your ornaments off... yup, it happened LOL These are the two best money makers for HVAC guys that are shady.... cheap part, but expensive fix. Once again, not watching the video

[@danielwindler2445]

There ya go… have a bunch of DIY try n repair their own system and void the manufacturer warranty… or make it worse I’m tired of hearing how dare I charge for my 35 years in the trades… Do you get to negotiate your McDonalds bill?! You people demand that you get paid for what ever you do for a living

[@diyhvacguy]

You should be thanking me for sending people your way when they mess up their system 🤣 The reality is hvac is brain surgery, and people are more capable then you give them credit for. 👍🏼

[@sergiomplayer]

Just get rid off the camera guy his pointed everywhere but the objective.

[@patrickhutchins6935]

you are just as bad for dragging this video out past the 10 minute limit to get extra money from youtube

[@diyhvacguy]

Not sure what you are talking about. A lot of my videos are 30-45 mins.

[@Eddy63]

Great info as usual ... Thx for all you do