Re: [VAC] 75 Argosy Air-Conditioner Question

[Jim Dunmyer <jdunmyer@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Elisa,
 Phil gave you very good advice.

Remember that all household-type refrigeration units (your home fridge,
window A/C, freezer, A/S A/C, etc. are sealed at the factory and there's
no way for them to leak the refrigerant, short of physical breakage or
something of that sort. They'll either have the right amount or nothing,
and if it's the latter, you probably have other problems that will cause
the unit to be 'scrap iron'.

Folks get the idea that their system is "low on freon" because of their
experience with automotive A/C units. These are belt-driven, so have a
seal on the compressor drive shaft. It's about impossible for those to
NOT have a slight leak. Plus, there's all sorts of hoses and other
plumbing, all with fittings between the components. Again, very slight
leakage is almost the norm, causing you to have to "top it off"
periodically.

Home-type refrigeration units are hermetically sealed, the motor is
inside a sealed can, along with the compressor itself. All fittings are
welded/silver-soldered/whatever, and they simply don't leak unless
broken. You should check for aftermarket "bullet piercing valves" that
have been added. Those could well leak, and it's evidence that someone
has worked on the unit at one time or another.

Although components can sometimes be replaced, it's not usually worth
it. The exception would be the fan motor, that's cheap and relatively
easy to replace IF a new one can be found that will fit.

                                      <<Jim>>