How much does labor cost to install AC compressor?

Author: Mr. Gayle Oberbrunner  |  Last update: Thursday, September 18, 2025

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.

How much is labor to install an AC compressor?

The average cost for an AC Compressor Replacement is between $916 and $1,186. Labor costs are estimated between $165 and $209 while parts are priced between $751 and $977. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.

How many hours does it take to install a AC compressor?

The Answer Is Seldom A Simple One

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.

Why is it so expensive to replace an AC compressor?

Replacing an AC compressor in a vehicle is expensive because the compressor is a very important part that helps keep the car cool. It's like the heart of the air conditioning system, and it works hard to pump cool air.

What is the labor cost to install an AC unit?

HVAC pros typically charge between $75 and $200 per hour, depending on their experience level and the complexity of the installation.

How Much Does An Air Conditioner Cost? - AC Installation

How much do HVAC charge for labor?

Several factors influence how much you'll pay for labor for your next HVAC repair or replacement service. However, the average cost of HVAC labor is $75 to $150 per hour.

Why is AC installation so expensive?

Another reason that installing a new AC is so expensive is that modern air conditioning equipment is more complex and specialized than ever. This means the AC technician installing your new system needs a specific set of costly tools to do their work and additional training to know how to use them.

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.

Can you replace an AC compressor yourself?

Replacing an AC compressor on your own can save on some labor costs, but it's a more advanced process than a routine air filter swap. Consider whether you have significant experience or not with HVAC systems and components and if your skill level is up to the needs of the task.

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 replacing an AC compressor difficult?

Figuring out how to replace an AC compressor in your air conditioner can be challenging, even for a handy DIY homeowner. But before you invest in a brand-new HVAC unit or start looking at cheap air conditioners, it's worth considering the possibility of swapping out this part.

How long does a full AC install take?

First, your new air conditioner can likely be installed in just one day, with the vast majority of installations taking 4-8 hours. Don't worry, you're not going to be left to fend for yourself in the sweltering heat of your own living room for long.

How long does it take to install a AC compressor?

Exactly how long it takes to replace a compressor will depend on the year, make, and model of the vehicle. Usually, replacing a compressor takes an hour or two, with additional time required to evacuate and recharge the A/C system.

How much for car AC compressor replacement?

Replacing a car AC compressor can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000, but the final price depends on several factors: Car model: Luxury cars typically require more expensive compressors than standard vehicles. Vehicle age: Older vehicles with hard-to-find parts may be more expensive to fix due to the rarity of the parts.

Does home insurance cover HVAC?

Homeowners insurance covers HVAC systems when the damage is a result of a covered disaster or peril, including high winds, fallen trees, theft, hail or even a fire. So if lightning strikes your unit and damages its electrical components, your homeowners insurance policy would probably cover it.

How much does it cost to remove and replace an 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.

Can I run my AC with a broken compressor?

The compressor is a vital part of your AC unit, responsible for compressing the refrigerant and circulating it through the system. When it fails, your cooling system can't function properly, and you'll be left in an uncomfortable, hot home. When your compressor dies, it often means the AC must be fully replaced.

Can you replace an AC compressor without an evacuating system?

Before you replace the AC compressor, it is important to have a professional evacuate the AC system. This step safely removes refrigerant and adheres to environmental laws, ensuring a safe and compliant process. Proper evacuation ensures no illegal release of refrigerants into the atmosphere.

Why do AC compressors cost so much?

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. In many cases, replacing the entire air conditioning system is more cost-effective than just replacing the compressor.

How much is a new HVAC compressor?

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.

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.

How much should I charge to install an AC unit?

The approximate average to install a new AC unit is $4,200* with a typical price range of $3,500 to $8,500.

Are HVAC prices going up in 2024?

Read on to learn why equipment prices keep going up. Have you noticed how high heating and air conditioning system prices have gotten? At the end of 2023, several leading HVAC equipment manufacturers publicly announced upcoming price increases for residential equipment in 2024.

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