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Old 08-01-10, 12:19 PM   #149
Xringer
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A HVAC tech didn't "sign off" on it, but did check it over and watched the micron gauge
for a while, before releasing the R410a into the line set.
I think he was happy to be learning how to start up a mini-split. I got his card and used
his company name (one-man company?) when I sent in my warranty info.

When I had the leak, they just wanted to know how long it had been installed.
I was past the free labor point. Or that's what they told me.
They didn't try to wiggle out of helping me out. It just took a long time
to get a new unit from China..

Ductless HVAC Supply sells these units with a 20 foot line-set and they say not to
cut it shorter, or you will have to call a tech to remove some R410a.
I double checked with their support guy and he's 'sure' that 20 feet is perfect.

The new outdoor unit is still working very well. Just like the first one.
I'm not worried about PF, since my power monitor is a bit basic.
I calibrated it using the power company meter. So, it's pretty close.

I have the over-wattage alarm on the power monitor set for 2kW.
And, I make 2 degree changes only (+ or - room temp) to avoid any high wattage use.

The reason I'm being extra careful of any surges, is I think maybe the old unit
got up to high power and the R410a pressure went up, sending the unit
into over-pressure shut-down.
I'm not 100% sure, but maybe that very high pressure blew out a weak spot in the copper.

This new unit was build at the same time, so it might also have a weakness.?.
I'm not taking any chances, so I'm trying to stay away from the 3kW mark..

You are dead-on with the 'inverter vs non-inverter' info. It's the low speeds
of the compressor and large fan unit that really save the watts.

That tax break was a nice 'extra' for us. It more than paid for all the tools
and fees.

The last few days of July turned out nice and the 1st of August is really nice.
So, to avoid crankcase heating, the breaker has been off a few days..

I'm pretty sure this has been the hottest July ever. It has been generally VERY warm!
I checked it out the other day and the mean average temperature last year, was 8 degrees cooler!

During these last 31 days, we used about 116 kW hours. About $24.36 or 78.5 cents a day.
I rounded up the cost to 21 cents per kWh..

Later,
Rich
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