My HVAC unit died in the middle of July heatwave

Last month my AC went out on a Sunday with temps hitting 98 degrees. I called three different repair places in Atlanta and they all wanted $150 just to come look at it. Turned out the capacitor blew and parts cost me $25 but labor was $200. I learned after that I should have Googled how to check the capacitor myself. Has anyone else had luck fixing their own HVAC issues or is that asking for trouble?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_sarah12d agoMost Upvoted

Tbh that's the kind of DIY line where you're one mistake away from a fried circuit board.

riverwhite12d ago

Hear me out but I honestly think people overhype the danger of basic HVAC fixes. Capacitors are pretty straightforward, you just need to know how to discharge them safely and not touch the wrong terminals. YouTube has a million videos showing exactly what to look for. I mean yeah you can fry a board if you're careless but the same could be said for changing a car battery. My uncle has fixed his AC three times with just a multimeter and some patience. Not saying go full electrician mode but a blown capacitor is not brain surgery.