For more than 25 years, my wife and I have contended with a noisy AC/heater blower unit situated just a few feet away from our TV.
We would either turn the TV volume way up or turn off the AC if we wanted to hear the TV.
Years ago we got a $5,000 quote to move the unit to the attic. It was more than we were willing to pay.
But yesterday, my wife suggested we get new quotes. So she called three companies recommended on the Home Adviser website.
Last night, while watching TV, with the AC running, the blower unit began making strange, loud, grinding noises. Suddenly, no more cool air. The thermostat temperature would not change. I had to pull the plug to shut off the fan motor.
Then, came the first of three phone calls. The AC companies had just been alerted by Home Advisor to call us.
I woke last night and Googled everything I could think of about fixing and purchasing AC units.
When the first AC man arrived at 6:45 a.m., I was ready to suggest that the problem was a broken blower motor. I was right. It was a $425 job, he said.
But he would hook up a new blower unit in our attic for $3,000. The second quote for $6,500 came in the afternoon. I jumped at the $3,000 deal, and tomorrow morning we will design the contract.
Coincidence or Divine intervention – you choose.
What would have happened if the blower had not failed? How much longer would we wage war against that noisy device?
How will we cope with our new quiet surroundings as we watch TV?
Crunchy celery and sugar snap peas might just do the trick.
Mr. Ebsen may be contacted at robertebsen51@gmail.com
