Lotta jobs have the refrigerant piping reused when getting a new A/C. It's bit us twice this summer. If you are taking out a unit that is leaking, especially, it may not be the wisest thing to do. Or at least have your dealer do a leak search before reusing to be sure they aren't leaking.

Job 1: Empty, tech offers leak search, system 22 years old, HO declines. Put in new system, leak checked, found leak in attic where roofer shot a nail into the piping over the winter. Roofer had his guy fix hole, we evacuated and started unit. HO thinks we owe him since we took out a good unit. Never mind that we offered a leak search and never mind that others quoted reusing the lines. Ugly.

Job 2: Leaking system, replacing and salesman called for new lines through chase in slab. Installers say can't pull old ones out. Could have run overhead in garage but HO didn't like. So reused. Must have been a fast leak check and vacuum cuz 2 weeks later the on call is there on a night no cool. Compressor shorted. Oh wait, there's more - system is empty. Next day another tech does a leak search. Finds system full of MUDDY WATER. I guess the leak was in the chase in the slab. System ruined. Funny thing is, when replacing this new system, they put all their strength into it and were able to pull the old lines out and new through. Literally did take all their strength.

Here's what was in the system:


So think twice before changing the lines unless you are SURE they are solid, clean and the right size.