I'm in Mesa AZ - I called the SRP (electric Co) for their special $29.95 check to make sure our unit is ready for summer. They sent someone from Climate Pro - the result was that it cost $187.71. He changed the blower motor capacitor (which he said was out of tolerance - 14.09 MED when it should be 15 MED) whatever that is. And that it was making the motor work harder and if I didn't change it out the motor was at risk and it would be a larger fee to replace that.
So - was I taken to the wood shed?

1 microfarad off should not make a difference. After reading your post I checked 4 new capacitors out of the box. The range ran from .01 to .09 lower. That's how they get their foot in the door with a low inspection fee.

Yes, my opinion you was taken to the woodshed

Thanks guys - I had a gut feeling this wasn't a needed repair. Wish I had some way to let people know about this company - Climate Pro in Chandler AZ - and the need to avoid them!

Well, we can add one more company to the list in AZ. Unfortunately, SRP (our elec company) recommends the preventative maintenance (http://www.thermal-medics.com/my-videos/tune-up-racket-vs-preventative-mx/)but uses contractors that pay their Techs based on commission (http://www.thermal-medics.com/). That goes for 75% of residential HVAC service techs in the valley of the sun.

I could come out and find 20 things you 'could' replace but I am not paid to change parts that operate normally. Most guys are held to sales quotas and face reprimand for not pushing parts. That sickens me.

Looks like you are getting educated and informed and that is a good thing. I got into this business after my parents were taken for a ride by some crooks in this town.

Good luck and on the bright side you got off pretty easily compared to many.

don't read this article unless you have a strong stomach (http://phxheatpump.blogspot.com/2012/03/hands-down-worst-ac-story-ever.html)