When your AC is not functioning as well as it should, it’s hard to decide if the entire unit needs replacement or if a compressor replacement is enough to keep your AC working for a few more years.
Is it worth replacing the compressor on your AC unit? The qualified team at Pro Comfort Control in Framingham, MA, will give you an honest estimate and help you determine if the cost is worth it.
As Framingham’s air conditioning service experts, we’re here to answer your AC compressor questions and provide fast, hassle-free AC service. Call us at 508-684-5362 for a free quote from our qualified HVAC repair team.
Signs of a Broken Compressor
The AC compressor moves coolant through the unit to absorb and remove heat from the air in your home. When the compressor does not function fully, it may require replacement, which can be expensive.
Before you decide how to proceed, you need to know how to recognize the signs of a broken AC compressor. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call in a professional:
- Warm air blows from the vents
- The circuit breaker trips regularly
- The outside unit makes loud and unusual noises
Should You Replace Your AC Compressor: Factors to Consider
Is it worth replacing the compressor on your AC unit? Most of the time, the benefits of replacing the entire unit outweigh the substantial cost of replacing the compressor alone. Here are a few things to consider:
Age of Your Unit
With proper maintenance, an AC unit will last at least 15 years. If your unit is 15+ years old, replacing the air conditioner compressor is not worth it. Old AC parts working with new parts do not allow for optimal operation of the unit and lowers energy efficiency.
Warranty
If you have a dead compressor and your unit is under warranty, replacement is a great idea. Due to the high cost of replacing a bad AC compressor, the only time it is a good financial decision is when the warranty is still valid.
Time of Year
Timing is a huge factor when it comes to the cost of replacing your compressor. As temperatures rise, people turn on their air conditioners for the first time in months and discover problems. HVAC technicians are so busy during the summer months that there can be an extensive wait time for even a simple repair.
Though you can’t control when your air conditioner breaks, you will receive a lower quote if the repair can take place when repair technicians are not as busy.
Price Comparison
Before you make a firm decision on whether to repair or replace the compressor, it’s wise to get an estimate for each service from a licensed professional HVAC technician. Make sure to factor in the cost of parts and labor, as well as the cost to top off a new unit with coolant.
You may discover that the cost to replace the condenser unit is about the same as replacing the compressor. The benefit of replacing the condenser is that since all the parts are the same age, it will be the most energy-efficient and last longer before requiring extensive repair.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace an AC Compressor?
A new compressor can be expensive, so you may want to replace the entire unit if your AC is near the end of its life or experiencing frequent issues.
A new AC compressor costs between $900 and $2,500, depending on the size of the AC system. A high-capacity system costs more to replace.
The shock of an unexpected expense of this size can be upsetting. There are a few ways to pay for a new AC to consider before you decide to ignore the problem.
If your unit is not under warranty, your homeowner’s insurance or home warranty may cover repair costs. Ask your HVAC company if financing plans are available so that you don’t have to suffer through a hot summer with a broken AC!
Call a Professional
Is it worth replacing the compressor on your AC unit? If your AC unit is under warranty, placing the condenser might be the best option. Otherwise, the smartest choice is to replace the entire condenser unit.
Regardless of the type of repair your unit requires, our team at Pro Comfort Control can help!
We can inspect your unit and advise you on when to replace your AC. Call us at 508-684-5362 to schedule service.
Author Bio:
Ryan McKernan
Founder
Passionate about delivering outstanding craftsmanship and superior customer service. Offering our customers the absolute best selection of heating, cooling, hot water and plumbing equipment and top-quality installation materials with industry leading installers. Brings over 25 years of invaluable experience to every project.