Please advise-Old Trane system-We're desperate

[Lizzy]

:( We have a 15 y.old Trane heat pump that keeps freezing up?
Its blowing cold air in normal mode the only heat we get is from the AUX heat which comes on once an hour (I've been timing it ) and runs for about 20m. and then the cold air comes again. We had a tech here about 6 weeks ago and he said freon was low and charged it and said to call him back when it acted like it was low again and he would come and find the leak. Everyone I've talked to says the tech was negligent for not finding the leak then and there so I don't want to call him again. I've called another guy and am waiting for a response.
The biggest issue is there is no $$ for a new heat pump. What can we do? How do we find a tech we can trust? How much should we be willing to put up to fix this? How much do new systems cost anyway? How common is financing on these systems?
Obviously I am distraught as I know this is going to be a major expense. Can anyone advise me? I don't know what to do.

[aircooled53]

The cost $$ can not be answered on this forum. But, I will say maybe you would want to wait until the leak is located. Maybe it's in the evaporator, or at a location where it could be repaired.

What you need to look at is what the total cost of repairs vs what you will gain in making the repairs to older system. If you funds are tight, then you might want to see if the company you call has finacing program for there equipment.

As new installation requires a min.. 13.0 S.E.E.R. and your heat pump is 15 years old then I would say most likely the indoor coil (will NOT) make the new ratings..

Think about the amount of electrical cost now with your existing machine vs 40-60% savings over having newer system installed.:eek:

[tact1999]

Did adding refridgerant solve the problem the last time?

[coolguysfl]

Well - lets get a few things straight:

1) You have a heat pump - it has two heat sources, one the compressor, the other the strip heat often employed as 2nd stage or back up emergency heat.
2) By your description your heat pump is out - you're using the strip only
3) Techs often hope for the best, particularly if you don't have a history of refrigerant leaks in that a recharge will get you by... other times they don't want to be the bearer of bad news that your real remedy will be a costly one.
4) Most all leaks can be found & remedied unless with the coils
5) If your system is 15 Yrs old I wouldn't spend more than a modest 100-500 on repairs, it just isn't worth fixing
6) I understand you didn't plan on buying a new system.... but that might be the best advise you'll get today..... most contractors have financing available.

So for today ---- ck w/ neighbors & friends who they used & found trustworthy. Get 3 estimates, be sure permits are acquired - you'll be OK, it's only money.

[Lizzy]

Did adding refridgerant solve the problem the last time?

Yes, for about 6 weeks or so.

[tact1999]

Have an HVAC tech find the leak first before worrying about full replacement. After which you can decide which is the most feasable way to go.

[dw1]

Agree with coolguy, couple hundred dollar limit, but may cost several times that.
If that happens I would recommend new system. 15 yr old system is near the end of its useful life.

[Lizzy]

Thank you guys for your help. I'm waiting for the tech now. I'll keep you posted.