HVAC certification

[isohunter]

Here in Texas the AC goes out a lot and is the number one maintenance expense. So now I usually install a whole new system when I purchase a property. That way, I won't have to worry about it while it's under warranty and I can write it off. My question is whether or I should go through training to do the installation myself. Has anybody done this and does it save you a significant amount of money?

[Ryan M]

Will,

If you are mechanically inclined it isn't too difficult to do. As for getting certified, that would be necessary if you wished to buy the equipment from a wholesale supplier. Are the units roof top or split systems that you generally replace? I understand the cost of repairs for older HVAC equipment, however, it can be cost effective to keep what you have depending in how long you will hold the property.

I have had an A/C business for the past 15 years and have many clients that have rentals. As I advise them I ask, "how long before you sell" and evaluate the age/condition of the HVAC equipment. The tenants cause the majority of the A/C problems, an addendum to the contract can make them responsible for their errors.

As for going through training? If you really want to learn, apply at an A/C shop and learn it hands on. This is really your best teacher for installations anyway. As for your certification for refrigerant, there are home study courses available for that and the testing is generally done through a supply house. I can give you some leads for equipment purchases if you'd like, depending on what your wanting, it can even be delivered to you!

Best of Luck!

[isohunter]

Ryan thanks for the reply. The reason I thought about this was because I noticed an hdsupply warehouse near my area so checked them out online. What I saw nearly blew me away. A 13 seer 3 ton unit costs around 500! I was paying close to 2500 for installation! I figure if I learn to do this myself I should save myself some money.

If you have time I would definitely like referrals to wholesalers that deliver.

[Ryan M]

Ryan thanks for the reply. The reason I thought about this was because I noticed an hdsupply warehouse near my area so checked them out online. What I saw nearly blew me away. A 13 seer 3 ton unit costs around 500! I was paying close to 2500 for installation! I figure if I learn to do this myself I should save myself some money.

If you have time I would definitely like referrals to wholesalers that deliver.

Hey, you're not suppose to go "snooping" around the net looking at our cost, LOL! The $500 price tag seems like a good deal to ME, perhaps it was an off brand from China? However, the cost is generally around $650-700.

Yes, the mark up in the A/C industry is huge, one reason is the average person can not acquire the equipment and two, the employees in the industry are paid very well. The installers in Cali make $15-20/hr, with techs making $25-35/hour....privaliing wages are even higher.

With the price you gave, it appears you are looking at the condensing unit that sits along side the house. If you are upgrading to a 13 SEER, I assume the contractor is installing a new evaporator coil on the furnace, as part of your $2500 cost (which really isn't a bad price at all). If you are not changing the evap, or at least adding an expansion valve to it, then the extra money spent on the 13 SEER would be for nothing.

Are you only replacing the outside unit? Do you have skills in braising copper? Mechanically inclined? If yes, then you should be able to replace these things yourself. As for the wholesale info, PM me and I will get that to you.