How long does it take to replace a home AC compressor?

Author: Dr. Casimir Hoppe  |  Last update: Sunday, August 10, 2025

It entails removing and disposing of any remaining refrigerant, disconnecting and removing the old compressor, installing the new one with proper fittings, and recharging with refrigerant. Add it all up and it typically takes four to six hours.

How long does it take to change an AC compressor?

AC compressor replacement in a car typically requires about 4-6 hours for a professional mechanic to complete. This time can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the complexity of the engine layout, and the specific tools and equipment available.

Is it hard to replace a home AC compressor?

Changing a compressor can be a lot of fun, it will call upon all your mechanical skills from brazing and piping to electrical and wiring. There's a couple thing's, which will make this compressor change out go smooth and turn on when you're done.

What is the $5000 rule for AC?

The $5,000 rule is a rule of thumb in the HVAC industry to help homeowners decide whether HVAC repair or HVAC replacement makes more sense in the long run. The $5,000 rule: Multiply the age of your equipment by the estimated repair cost. If the number is more than $5,000, then you should consider replacing your unit.

How much does labor cost to replace a home AC compressor?

Cost Of Replacement Of Home AC Compressor

The cost to replace it ranges between $800 and $2,800. The labor and material make up around 50 percent of the final bill. The cost of its parts ranges from $450 to $1,500. Moreover, the cost of labor per hour is about $50 to $150 per hour.

STOP Replacing Your AC Unit TOO Soon!!!

How many years should an AC compressor last?

Most compressors have the same or similar life expectancies as traditional AC units. They typically break down after 15 years but can last longer with proper maintenance. Many people believe replacing their air conditioner's compressor is more cost-effective once it gives out.

Is it cheaper to replace compressor or whole unit?

The technician should be able to tell you if the compressor is (or is not) still under warranty. If you have to pay for labor and the compressor, chances are you're going to need to replace the entire outside unit because it would cost slightly more than replacing the compressor.

What is the most expensive part to replace on an AC unit?

Usually, it is a quick fix, but sometimes the failure can be caused by a much bigger problem. The most expensive part of an AC unit to replace and repair is the air compressor.

What is the life expectancy of a home AC unit?

While every unit is different, and every homeowner has a different understanding of when their central air conditioner is broken beyond repair, it's fair to say that, with proper maintenance and care, you can expect a good 15 to 20 years of cooling from a new high efficiency air conditioning system.

Is it worth repairing a 10 year old air conditioner?

If your aircon is older than 10 years and plagued with ongoing issues, you might want to consider replacing your air conditioner. A benefit of replacing your aircon is that you will get a more energy efficient model which would ultimately save you a lot of money on power bills.

Why is it so expensive to replace AC compressor?

Why is it so expensive to replace an AC compressor? An AC compressor is expensive to replace because it takes at least four hours to complete, and replacement parts are among the most expensive parts of the air conditioner.

Can I change an AC compressor without changing the condenser?

The condenser is the outdoor cabinet of an AC and the parts inside: the compressor, the condenser fan, and the condenser coil. If the compressor fails, you can opt to have only the condenser replaced, leaving the indoor components in place. This costs less than a full AC replacement, but we rarely recommend it.

How do I know if my compressor is bad on my home AC unit?

Below, we'll detail the warning signs of a bad AC compressor and the steps you should take to address this common issue.
  1. Clicking or Chattering. ...
  2. Rumbling and Rattling. ...
  3. Restricted Airflow. ...
  4. Warm Air Flowing. ...
  5. Refrigerant Leak. ...
  6. Tripping Circuit Breaker. ...
  7. Unit Vibrates When Starting. ...
  8. Air Conditioner Won't Turn On.

Do you have to remove freon to replace an AC compressor?

Before you can replace the AC compressor, it's essential to safely remove the refrigerant from the system.

How do you know when your AC compressor is going out?

What are some symptoms of a failing AC compressor? Loud noises, hot air, airflow issues, uneven cooling, and electrical problems are all things you might run into when an AC compressor is on its last leg.

What should I replace when I replace my AC compressor?

The following items will need to be replaced on the compressor:
  • New compressor.
  • Basic hand tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, ratchet, and pliers.
  • Refrigerant recovery tank.
  • Equipment to recover and charge system.
  • Refrigerant.
  • Torch.

Which AC brand lasts the longest?

Which HVAC Brands Last the Longest?
  • Mitsubishi Electric: Superior Efficiency and Durability. ...
  • Goodman Air Conditioning and Heating: Affordable and Long-Lasting. ...
  • Rheem: Reliable Performance for Decades. ...
  • Honeywell: Smart Home Integration and Durability. ...
  • Lennox: High-End Performance for the Long Haul.

How much does an air conditioner cost for a 2000 sq ft home?

Average New AC Unit Costs

The average cost of installing a new central air conditioner in 2024, including equipment and labor costs, is $5,750 for a 3-ton unit in a 2,000-square-foot home. On average, a new AC unit cost will fall between $3,300 and $7,800.

Should I replace my 15 year old AC unit?

14 to 20 years old: This is the average life span of well-maintained HVAC equipment. A breakdown at this age may warrant a replacement.

Does homeowners insurance cover replacing AC unit?

Does homeowners insurance cover air conditioner replacement? If your air conditioner is damaged or destroyed due to a covered peril, such as lightning or a windstorm, your homeowners insurance policy may pay to repair or replace the unit, up to your coverage limit and minus your homeowners insurance deductible.

How much does a full AC replacement cost?

It costs an average of $5,955 to install a new AC, but prices commonly range from $3,906 to $8,016, depending on the unit's size and type. A pro can provide an accurate quote based on your needs. The key to beating the heat this summer is running a good AC.

Is it better to repair AC or buy a new one?

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.

How long does it take for a shop to replace an AC compressor?

It entails removing and disposing of any remaining refrigerant, disconnecting and removing the old compressor, installing the new one with proper fittings, and recharging with refrigerant. Add it all up and it typically takes four to six hours.

How much is labor to replace compressor in air conditioner?

Labor. The cost of labor fluctuates from place to place, but generally speaking, the labor expense makes up half of the total bill. Replacing an AC compressor has a price tag ranging between $800 and $2,800; therefore its labor component could be anywhere in between $400 and $1,600.

Can I replace my AC compressor only?

Sure, you could just swap out the compressor, but here's the deal – if it's out of warranty, replacing the whole outdoor unit might not cost you much more. And here's the real kicker: we're suggesting you go big and replace the whole system. Yeah, it might hit your budget a bit, but trust us, it's the smart move.

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