How would you save this $120?

[Federico L.]

This is about what I consider a rookie mistake. I have a nice rental which is about 35-40 min from my home. I was working few Sundays ago and my tenant called stating that the A/C was not cooling. The unit has about 13y so I know it may give up any time.  I do not have it under property management (long story). The tenant has had late payments but has nevertheless paid the corresponding late fees. I have not had issues otherwise and a routine mid lease inspection was unremarkable.

That Sunday I was working. My wife sent an A/C repairman. He checked everything, and it turned out that the thermostat was set at 67 F, which froze the line and therefore could not cool. He educated the tenant and asked them to hold off few hours. Problem solved, unit refilled, diagnosed with a terminally ill motor (about 3-5y left). Service call+Sunday+repair= $120.  Tenant responsible for repairs under $100, so the check came from my bigger pocket.

What would you have done? (besides asking what temp is set to)

- Have a A/C company that would charge you $99? classic Home warranty scheme

- A/C stuff is serious and would always require a quick trip to take a look

- Wait an extra day. I guess it would still be timely. It was February in sunny FL

I welcome your comments and suggestions!