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View Full Version : Do I really need a new air handler


mjp28
Jul 9, 2009, 08:35 AM
Two weeks ago the fan in the air handler (indoor unit) was very loud and no air was blowing out of the vents. Technician came and said we needed a new motor - installed that and still not working, called company and they sent a new technician who said first techinician installed it incorrectly - it was backwards! So they turn it around and still no air flowing through the vents. Now they are telling me I need a new air hanlder which will cost $4500 installed. Mind you already spent $1500 for them to install the motor incorrectly!!

The air handler is made by Fedders and is 30 years old, so I could need a new one, but planning on selling the house this year and don't want to spend the $$ on a new one if I don't need to. Is there anything else I can look at to see if it will work. Also, is 4500 for a new air handler way out of line? Thanks

siberianair
Jul 9, 2009, 08:46 AM
$4500 for an air handler?? It better be top of the line or close to it. There has to be cheaper units available. Also if they did not fix the problem I would ask them what they plan to do about the money already spent.
Most fans only get installed one way. Now some can change their rotation. Maybe they had it rotating wrong. Maybe when first tech installed backwards it caused damage.

Sounds to me like you are paying way too much for repairs and whatnot with this company. In my area a new blower motor, capacitor, labor and service call on a non emergancy basis would run you about $700.

karlomtz
Jul 9, 2009, 08:46 AM
Man, I thought $1700 was too much, look at my post:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/heating-air-conditioning/fan-blower-motor-does-not-work-373643.html

mjp28
Jul 9, 2009, 08:50 AM
Thanks - I live in NY, so everything is always more expensive - but I did think I was getting ripped off. The company said that would put the $$ I already spent towards the cost of the air handler but I still thought it was ridiculous and how do I know that they didn't break it!
I think the new air handler is maytag - is that top of the line?

siberianair
Jul 9, 2009, 08:52 AM
Trane or carrier would be top of line. Maytag is mid grade. Where in New York do you live? I live in nepa and might be able to locate a reputable company for you.

mjp28
Jul 9, 2009, 09:00 AM
Im in Westchester NY