Found crack in cylindrical part inside A/C condenser unit

JayN · 2008-06-28T00:58:59+00:00

I had my Central A/C tuned up at the beginning of June. It has beenworking nicely, I still am getting cooling. My unit is a 4 tonCarrier system. It is an older system that uses R22.Today, I happened to take a peak through the top of the condenserunit, and noticed that there is a crack in the metal case of lightgrey colored cylindrical part.Here are links to 2 photos: part is this? Does the crack in the metal case mean failure willsoon happen...if so how soon? What is the brown stuff I see on theside of this part below the crack...is this oil? Do I have a freonleak?Nobody mentioned this during my tune-up. From the looks of it, it'shard to believe the crack didn't exist at the beginning of the monthat all, and they didn't need to add any freon because pressure wasfine, and I'm still getting adequate cooling as far as I can tell.Does anything need to be done?Thanks,Jay

Jun 28, 2008 24 Replies

Rate this thread:

HeyBub 18 years ago

In future, PLEASE don't cross-post to alt.hvac AND home-repair.

The comments from the hvac people bleed over and are downright shocking to the sensibilities of us here on home.repair. When I see some of the vicious and profanity-laden missives, I get an attack of the vapors and the wife has to have a lie-down. The attitude on hvac seems to be epitomized by the Dilbert cartoon:

Panel #1 Dilbert: "I think it's the carburetor."

Panel #2 Mechanic: "You think it's WHAT?"

Panel #3 Dilbert: "I think it's the &#*^@! carburetor." Mechanic: "Well, why didn't you say so!"

Thank you for your consideration.

Vote

KJPRO 18 years ago

Your screen name... Big Giant Head...

You forgot DICK or is it, you have your Big Giant Head up your ASS?

Vote

Zyp 18 years ago

Jay;

The unit you showed in your picture that you posted is approximately 24 years old or better. [1985] Most residential HVAC equipment will give you

20 years of service [albeit without proper maintenance]. I'd be looking at replacing the unit with a more current, efficient unit. You'd likely cut your electrical usage by 40% with a newer high efficiency unit.

Understand it is a home appliance and has a life cycle.

Vote

Oztech 18 years ago

Are you really only with us "part time"? Seriously!

Paul

Vote

Big Giant Head 18 years ago

Um...it was a character on Third Rock From the Sun.

Vote

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required