As a 34-year HVAC veteran, I usually recommend replacement of the condensing unit only when the compressor has failed(seized or burnt out). A properly maintained central air conditioning system should easily last 20-30+ years, so don't replace it early!
When a replacement is required, I will usually recommend a menu of options (at increasing cost): 1. Replace the failed compressor in the existing condensing unit
2. Replace the existing condensing unit only (where the replacement condenser has the same SEER rating as the original
3. Replace the condensing unit and the evaporator coil to upgrade the efficiency rating of the system
4. Replace the entire system (when converting from R-22 to R-410A refrigerant)
Many existing condensing units have an efficiency of 10 SEER or less. The minimum SEER rating of replacement condensing units is 13 SEER. If you only replace the outdoor unit, it will no longer match the lesser efficiency rating of the existing evaporator coil. Not only will this mismatch reduce overall efficiency, it will probably void the manufacturer's warranty.
R-22 equipment is being phased out. I do not recommend using existing tubing with new R-410A equipment, since it will contain moisture-laden mineral oil which will deteriorate the new synthetic oil which is compatible with R-410A.
The HVAC Veteran
Condenser coil
The outdoor coil is a condenser in the cooling mode and an evaporator in the heating mode.. (pg. 1077) -MAS
CondenSER is correct. CondenSOR is not a real word. Regards!
it should blow directly to the condenser
Refrigerant should be removed from the condenser outlet when:
To change a condenser in a 2001 Kia Sephia you need to disconnect the refrigerant lines and unbolting the condenser. Lift the condensers out and replace with the new one.
Unscrew radiator, should be two attachments connected to condenser. Unscrew them from the condenser and it should slide right out from in front of the radiator.
The relay actuated by the thermostat which starts and stops the compressor and condenser fan in the outdoor unit.
check the condenser name plate. it will tell you the type of refrigerant.
I have a 1992 De Ville and the condenser is plugged. Is there a step by step over view of this project?
Very Carefully
A hot wall condenser is a type of condenser where the walls are heated to promote the condensation of vapors. On the other hand, a dynamic condenser uses cooling water or air to remove heat from the vapors and condense them into liquid.