Is it better to change just the compressor or whole AC system?

Author: Fiona Bode  |  Last update: Friday, October 6, 2023

If your AC is nearly 10 years old, the clear choice is to replace the entire system. If your system is new and the warranty is still intact, but the compressor has failed, it is indicative of an AC defect. For such systems, it's time to approach the manufacturer for system replacement.

Is it better to replace compressor or whole unit?

If your compressor is still under warranty, replace only the compressor. Assuming the compressor is no longer under warranty, we recommend replacing the outside unit if one or more of the circumstances also applies: Money is really short right now and you're not sure it'll be better anytime soon.

Is it cheaper to replace the AC unit or the compressor?

A new central AC system costs between $3,250 and $12,586, whereas it costs $2,500–$3,000 to replace your compressor. Beyond just cost, if your compressor is no longer under warranty and the whole system is more than eight to 10 years old, it might be worth it to replace the whole system.

Is it OK to just replace the AC compressor?

If the compressor is not still under warranty, you may still choose to replace it. However, you should probably opt to replace the entire outdoor unit at the same time. In most cases, this will cost only marginally more than replacing an out-of-warranty compressor alone.

Can I just change the compressor?

Consider replacing just the compressor if the existing AC unit and component parts are still under warranty. In this instance, the new compressor should not cost you anything but you will still need to pay for the labor to do the job.

When Should HVAC Air Conditioner or Furnace be Replaced?

What should I replace when I replace my AC compressor?

For the compressor that is seized, you will at the very least need to replace the compressor assembly and clutch, receiver drier, expansion valve, and flush out the system. I recommend having a mechanic diagnose your vehicle to see if any other components need replaced in order to fix your air conditioner.

Do I need to replace the condenser when I replace the compressor?

Compressors and condensers are often replaced simultaneously, mostly because compressor failures can leave behind debris that the condenser collects. If this debris isn't 100% removed, it will cause the new compressor to fail as well.

Why is it so expensive to replace AC compressor?

Your AC system's size can impact the installation price tag of it as a whole. It also affects the cost of your AC compressor replacement. The larger your AC system, the more expensive your compressor will be since a bigger compressor is needed to circulate the refrigerant throughout the system.

Can I run my AC with a broken compressor?

When a compressor fails, the AC fails. The fans may still run, but no cool air will come from the vents. Because the compressor is such a vital component, and an expensive one to replace, a homeowner must face a big choice about what to do next.

Do you have to replace the whole AC unit?

Replacing just the evaporator coil can lead to problems. A common rule of thumb in the industry is if your AC unit is over 8 years old, it may be more beneficial to replace the entire unit rather than a single component.

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

An air conditioner has a lot of different components that work together to cool your home. If one of these components starts to fail, it can cause the entire system to break down. One of the most expensive parts of your AC unit is the compressor.

What is the labor price to install an AC compressor?

Labor and Installation

HVAC technicians charge between $75 and $150 an hour when replacing an AC compressor. Expect the job to take between 4 and 6 hours for total installation costs of $300 to $900. You should always hire an HVAC contractor to replace a faulty AC compressor.

How many hours does it take to replace 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.

How many years should an AC compressor last?

The typical lifespan of an AC compressor is between 10 and 15 years while your HVAC system as a whole should last 15 to 20 years.

Is it OK to buy a used AC compressor?

You'll want to ensure that the unit is in good working order and hasn't sustained any damage or wear and tear. If you're purchasing a used A/C compressor from a reputable seller, they should be able to provide you with information about the compressor's condition and history.

What is the average life of a compressor?

Here are some rough estimates of average life expectancies for different types of compressors. Reciprocating air compressors typically last around 50,000 hours or 6 years, running 24/7. Rotary screw air compressors usually last over 100,000 hours. Centrifugal air compressors should last over 250,000 hours.

What happens if I run AC with bad compressor?

When your ac compressor fails, less air will come out from the vents, the air coming out could be warm, and the system may continually run without actually cooling your home. This is because refrigerant isn't pumped through the system, and it can result in a higher power bill.

What are signs of a bad AC compressor?

If there's an issue with your compressor, you might experience one or more of these signs:
  • Your AC Is Making Growling, Screeching, or Clattering Noises. ...
  • You Have a Hard Time Getting Your AC to Start. ...
  • Your AC Stops Blowing Cold Air. ...
  • Circuit Breaker Problems. ...
  • Diminished Airflow.

How do I know if my AC compressor is bad?

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.

How much should a new AC compressor cost?

The typical range for AC compressor cost is $800 to $2,800, with a national average of $1,200. Some of the biggest cost factors for AC compressor replacement are home size, compressor size and speed, compressor type, AC unit type, refrigerant type, brand, labor, and unit accessibility.

How long will a bad AC compressor last?

Although the average lifespan of a car AC compressor is between 10 and 12 years, the compressor clutch could fail earlier than that. Unfortunately, a failed clutch means you need a whole new compressor—they're inseparable.

Do I need to evacuate my AC system to change the compressor?

To remove the lines from your AC compressor you should first have the system safely evacuated of refrigerant. Once the system is empty, removing the lines is as simple as removing a few bolts. With the lines off, you can move onto removing the compressor so you can replace it.

How much is a Trane compressor?

If your unit is under warranty, an AC compressor replacement can cost $600 to $1,200. If it's not under warranty the replacement can cost anywhere from $1,300 to $2,500, according to data collected by Home Guide with 9 AC repair companies, reviewed on Oct.

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