Kegerator Dead, repair or replace

[beerdude]

I've got this older True TDD1 kegerator. It's like $1200 new. Mine is R12 so its gotta be 12years+. It needs a new compressor. Some dude wants $300 to fix, he says he'd have to change it over to some other Freon . I see these cheap krators for $500. What do you guys think? Can I fix on my own? Or hire someone? Or just give it all up and drink near beer?? I'v egot it hooked up to a huge 20lb Co2 tank. Sweet dude.

[O2 Mash]

I'd call True customer service and see what they say about certified repair firms, etc... The guy you spoke to may just be throwing in a cheap compressor. Make sure you know what you're getting and call around. For 300.00, you must be getting an industrial compressor. That wouldn't be a bad way to go, just get it fixed.

[wortchillergoal]

Calling True may not be a bad idea. I have in my brain for some reason that just changing the compressor is not all there is to it. I sold alot of True product when I was in the business. It is good product, so if it does turn out you can fix it for 300, I would think that would be the best way to go.

[beerdude]

You know, i actually did call True a few months back when it broke. They gave me 2 names of repair shops, but when i called them they were like"we only work for Commercial customers, not homeowners" Thats when I called a regular fridge repairman, he says he can replace the compressor with a 1/5hp unit, and I think do 134, but I dont recall. I know he said he had to evaculate the system in order to change it out. The kegerator is sitting outside right now, 1 inch from calling the dump. I just hate to fix it then 1 year later have it poop out again. Though he said it would last much longer. When it worked, the fan always ran inside. i guess thats normal? The compressor fan kicked on and off as needed, but internal fan was always blowin.

[danno]

beerdude, yes the commercial units run a fan continuously in the top of the unit to keep air circulating through the tower, in order to keep your beer line chilled. it's a separate fan from the compressor. the cheapie ones don't have that, so it's a definite step downwards from what you have now. I'd say if you could find a reputable place to fix it and stand behind their work, then do it, cause it's worth it in the long run...

[wortchillergoal]

I can offer a couple of ideas. I would be interested in the names of the repair shops they gave you too.

First, call one of the shops back and ask them why they won't do fix your unit other than not being a commercial business. I would point out that you pay with the same money a business would use.

Second, go into the yellow pages and find a dealer of used restaurant equipment. He may have a refrigeration repair service that will do the work or take the unit of your hands.