There are very few user serviceable air conditioning parts inside most units and many times, even if a person has the knowledge of how to change them, parts suppliers are reluctant to sell certain parts to a private party. There are some parts, such as the fan that can be replaced, but most homeowners are reluctant to open up what they consider an important appliance and attempt to change air conditioning parts on their own.
However, during certain times of the year, especially in extended periods of hot weather, many repair shops are busy and a homeowner may have to wait several days for service. If they are fortunate enough to know which part is bad, they can attempt to obtain the air conditioning parts they need and install it on their own instead of waiting.
Certain parts may require special tools or procedures to affect repairs, and even though the homeowner may be able to install the air conditioning parts they may not be able to complete the job.
For example, installing a new compressor is not really that difficult and in most units can be done in less than an hour.
However, once the air conditioning parts have been replaced it will need filled with gas under a certain pressure based on the unit, and without the proper tools and gauges may not be filled correctly. The repair service may be reluctant to refill a compressor or work on a unit in which air conditioning parts have been replaced by a non-professional, for fear of reprisals if something is not right with the unit.
EPA Laws Govern Release Of Freon
Some air conditioning parts suppliers are reluctant to sell parts to a homeowner if it involves any part of the coil or compressor system. Releasing Freon into the air is against federal environmental laws and those service units are required to contain and recycle any gas that is removed from an air conditioning compressor. Homeowners who are able to obtain the needed air conditioning parts may still have to wait for service in order to contain the gas.
Most recommendations are that any air conditioning parts related to the compression or transfer of Freon be changed by a trained professional. Other air conditioning parts can usually be changed safely by the homeowner or someone with the knowledge of how to change the parts. Some communities, however may limit those working on the power supply to be licensed electricians to maintain the safety of the units.