Thread: Small Split System Air Con - Advice Please

FOLKS. These units will last a very very very long time, like the old fridges, if installed correctly. I'll explain.
A freind of mine is a warranty guy and I know they carry ACID test kits which test if the system has been vacuumed properly (kits cost around $10). If the system has not been vacuum'd properly then it develops acid instantly (from memory, it is hydrolchloric acid) which starts rusting the inside of the all pipes, and pumps very quickly. This rust will occur very quickly, its worse than salty water, ITS ACID. Now, the system might go for about 1, 2, 3 years tick tick tick, but will eventually decrease performance due to blockage and sieze the pump, Hence its not fixable or covered under warranty. If vacuumed properly, I have seen these units go for 30 years + still going and have not leaked. Like the good old kelvinator fridge, will keep going and going. This is why the manufactures DEMAND professional installs in order to comply for your warranty(and it is illegal to self install. Insurance people also know this and will ask for it in the event of an incident). It protects their brand and covers them in the event of an exploded pipe incident. You know the saying, "I had a Kelvinator fridge that lasted 35 years and I out grew it so its chuggin along in the garage now. Keeps my beers really really COLD." They will last a long long long time if installed correctly. Also they ask for the license no of the installer and contact them if an issue arises. Hence no warranty if not installed by a licensed fridgy.

I am a licensed fridgy, quite happy to sign of self installs to comply with your warranty, if they are installed properly. This is not illegal. However, conditions, are

1) Install is done well, indoor unit/outdoor unit is level and correct clearances to walls, refer to installation manual for these, simple really.
2) Correct copper used for gas type, I am finding many of the cheaper types are coming with the copper pipe supplied. The cheaper units seem to work fine. I have one at home and love it. Simple really.
3) Only I flair the copper, as this must be done correctly with the correct tools that I trust, and you need to make oil traps sometimes and sometimes not, depending on install. Most back to back systems are quite simple.
4) I weld the copper joins if required as you have to use the correct silver content rods depending on the type and run dry nitrogen through the pipes in order to comply.
5) I vac the unit and check for leaks, as I have the latest tools, including 2 stage vac pump, leak detectors, and gauges.
6) I put more gas if needed due to extended runs. Although rare on installs. You pay for the extra gas, fair enough.

Price = $140 depending on location. This buys 1-2 hours of my time including travel. I'm in Preston, Vic,close to Melbourne CBD and do these on weekends or weekday evenings. Call me on 0417 209 552 or email me. Always happy to help a DIY person (me being one). Will do full installs as well.