While many problems can be resolved by yourself, there are situations where it's best to call a professional: Complex Repairs: Issues involving refrigerant, electrical components, or the compressor require professional expertise. Air conditioner repairs performed by experts can ensure your system is fixed correctly.
Simply put, no, you cannot replace your AC unit yourself.
Even if you have the technical know-how to install an AC unit, all of the electrical components add an elevated level of risk to the process. Plus, it takes nuanced HVAC experience to ensure you get the right unit for the size of your house.
Fixing your own A/C system, especially refrigerant-related issues, is not recommended. Refrigerant handling requires expertise and compliance with safety regulations. DIY attempts can lead to injury, system damage, and environmental harm.
Rebuilding your air conditioning compressor is not an easy job. There are a lot of small, high precision parts inside that must be kept very clean. In most cases it may require some special tools to do the work. It's not something you could do the first time and get it right.
Simple issues like a clogged filter or a blown fuse can be resolved quickly, often within an hour. However, more severe problems, such as a refrigerant leak or a faulty compressor, require detailed diagnosis and extended repair time.
Experienced DIYers can typically handle cleaning condenser and evaporator coils, and may be able to clear a blocked condensate drain line, but it's recommended to contact an air conditioner repair professional to replace a faulty compressor or recharge refrigerant levels.
There are a number of reasons why your air conditioner might be running but not cooling. It could be an issue with the thermostat, the compressor, or the evaporator coils. Or, it could simply be clogged with dust and debris, which is preventing it from working properly.
AC repair costs can vary widely, depending on the cause of the problem and the type of vehicle. On average, car AC repair costs run between about $430 and $520. However, if you need a new compressor, you can expect to spend $1,300 to $2,500 or more.
A vehicle should run and drive just fine without the AC compressor working as long as it's not seized and doesn't interrupt or stop the belt from turning in any way.
It would be wise to schedule an auto AC service at least once a year. Some auto technicians may recommend service twice a year—in the fall after summer's hot temperatures and before winter arrives, and then in the spring before summer's heart attacks.
Hiring a professional is much safer if you need to do electrical work to support your new air conditioner, such as installing a dedicated circuit. You're also better off hiring an HVAC technician to install or replace ductwork.
The Cons Side: Potential Pitfalls of DIY AC Installation
Some manufacturers void warranties if the unit isn't installed by a professional. Double-check your warranty terms before taking the plunge. Mistakes during installation can compromise cooling efficiency, shorten the AC lifespan, and even damage your home.
Replacing an AC compressor is almost as simple as replacing any other accessory on your motor like the alternator or power steering pump. The biggest difference is that before you remove the actual compressor you have to remove the refrigerant lines connect to it.
Many HVAC technicians use the "5,000 rule" when making this decision. Simply multiply the age of the system by the repair cost. If it's under $5,000, consider a repair; if it's over $5,000, it's probably better off buying a new unit.
The average cost for an AC Condenser Replacement is between $638 and $773. Labor costs are estimated between $197 and $248 while parts are priced between $442 and $525.
Likewise, there are some A/C repairs that the average person should leave to the pros. However, in many cases you—yes, even you—can figure out what's wrong with your car's air conditioner and fix the problem yourself, all for less than the diagnosis alone would cost at most auto repair shops.
One of the most obvious signs that your vehicle needs a Freon recharge is that your vehicle will be blowing warm air, even after your vehicle has been running for some time. If your refrigerant gets too low, there will simply not be enough “coolant” to cool the air as it is passed through your evaporator coil.
Warm Air from the Vents
If the compressor is fine, it will push cold air into the cabin of your vehicle. If you begin to notice warm or even hot air coming out of the vents, this is a clear indication that the compressor is not functioning properly.
A typical AC repair service usually lasts three to four hours. However, it may take longer if the damage seems severe or if a particular AC component needs to be replaced. During the service, the mechanic has to do several procedures, such as: Removing the residual gas from the AC system.
The most likely reason your air-conditioner isn't cooling is the car's air-conditioner is leaking. The car's AC system needs freon to lower the ambient air temperature and creates some needed cold air. Whenever there is a freon leak on your car there is no way to cool the air.
The average cost for an AC compressor is $1,200, but you might pay between $800 and $2,300 depending on your unit type and brand. On average, AC compressor costs range from $800 to $2,300, with most folks paying $1,200 for a new one.