Which heat pump do I have?
#1
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Which heat pump do I have?
<dumb question> Last year we had a surprising cold snap in middle Georgia. I called a heating contractor who said, "Sir, it's 17 degrees outside." But he came out to have a look and told me that the emergency heating unit wasn't working, but all he could do would be to replace the entire HVAC unit because the numbers on the outside had worn off and there was no way to determine what unit I have. Then he said it would cost five grand and hopped in his truck.
Well, one thing led to another and now we're down in the 30s. So:
Surely the model number would be somewhere on the unit where it isn't exposed to the elements and guaranteed to wear off in ten or twelve years. Where could I look for model numbers or part numbers. All I can read on the outside is Intertherm single package unit for outdoor installation.
Any ideas?</dumb question>
Well, one thing led to another and now we're down in the 30s. So:
Surely the model number would be somewhere on the unit where it isn't exposed to the elements and guaranteed to wear off in ten or twelve years. Where could I look for model numbers or part numbers. All I can read on the outside is Intertherm single package unit for outdoor installation.
Any ideas?</dumb question>
#2
There is usually only one primary ID plate and it's on the outside of the unit.
Locate where the wiring connects to the package unit, turn off power and remove that access cover. You may find another ID plate or some type of identifying decal in there.
There is a relay called a sequencer that could be bad in your system. It's job is to turn on the heating coil.
If you had a test meter and posted a few pictures of the insdie we might be able to help you.
http://www.doityourself.com/forum/el...-pictures.html
Locate where the wiring connects to the package unit, turn off power and remove that access cover. You may find another ID plate or some type of identifying decal in there.
There is a relay called a sequencer that could be bad in your system. It's job is to turn on the heating coil.
If you had a test meter and posted a few pictures of the insdie we might be able to help you.
http://www.doityourself.com/forum/el...-pictures.html
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So I finally arrived at the intersection of home and daylight. Pulled the panels as you suggested and found a sticker on the compressor and a matching sticker on one of the inside panels. Model number is q3rc-042k. Downloaded a manual and a parts list, so I should be able to figure this out. I may just call an installer and have them troubleshoot. I was a bit peeved with the guy who barely glanced at it before and gave me a price of $5K to replace the whole thing.
Thanks for your help, Pete.
Thanks for your help, Pete.
#4
Ok... that's a packaged system.
By "emergency heating" system I assume he's talking about the electric heating elements.
Is the heatpump itself working ?
I'm trying to locate the actual service manual. The generic online ones won't be much help here.
By "emergency heating" system I assume he's talking about the electric heating elements.
Is the heatpump itself working ?
I'm trying to locate the actual service manual. The generic online ones won't be much help here.
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Today I was given an estimate of $2800 to replace a bunch of parts and to re-charge the refrigerant. The tech said that this unit has the old refrigerant, which soon won't be available, so it might be better to replace the entire unit, which is 3,5 tons, 12 seer. Still looking at about $5K, though.
Craig
Craig
#6
That's a lot of money for repair. What was needed other than a recharge ?
If the unit has a major leak and we can assume R-12 refrigerant than a replacement unit would be a consideration. I've found 2003 as the average manufactured date which means the unit is roughly thirteen years old. Not terribly old.
I would recommend calling a second company too.
If the unit has a major leak and we can assume R-12 refrigerant than a replacement unit would be a consideration. I've found 2003 as the average manufactured date which means the unit is roughly thirteen years old. Not terribly old.
I would recommend calling a second company too.