How Much Does An Air Conditioner Compressor Cost?
Written By: Alexis Bennett
Edited by: Andrew Dunn
Are you looking for accurate cost information for replacing or repairing your air conditioner compressor?
Perfect, you’re in the right spot. In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How much will it cost to repair your air compressor?
- What are the best ways to save on AC replacements?
- How often do you need to replace your air conditioner condenser?
- What will a new AC compressor cost you?
- Is it worth repairing your air conditioner?
Your air conditioner is one of the most costly systems in your home, so it is important to make sure you’re staying on top of any maintenance needed. Keep reading below as we go through the cost of replacing or repairing your AC compressor.
What's In This Guide?
What Is The Average AC Compressor Replacement Cost?
When most people ask about the average cost to replace an AC compressor, they usually refer to the entire unit outside. Your central AC has two main units.
The indoor unit houses the air handler, evaporator coil, heat pump, and a fan. Your outdoor unit houses your condenser coils, compressor, and a fan.
When parts in either unit are not working properly, it puts a strain on the entire system. So, a malfunctioning compressor can easily turn into a total system replacement.
If you are lucky enough to catch it in time, a new compressor costs between $800 and $3000 to replace. And, replacing the entire outdoor unit will cost about the same.
Condenser units run from $600 to more than $3,000. The cost of your replacement AC will depend on the type of compressor and the BTU rating. Units with higher energy efficiency tend to be more costly, but you save money in the long run on energy costs for running your air conditioning system.
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Repair vs. Replacement of An Air Conditioning Compressor?
When your compressor goes out, it is almost always better to replace the whole condensing unit. However, some parts can easily be replaced to keep your outdoor unit running longer.
Repair Cost
If your compressor is still working but is not running efficiently, a technician may be able to tuneup your HVAC, so you do not have warm air coming out of your vents. Something as simple as a malfunctioning capacitor or a refrigerant leak could be causing your problem.
An air conditioning repair company will charge you between $200 and $400 to repair either issue. A refrigerant leak may be more costly depending on the amount of refrigerant the contractor has to replace and the type your system uses.
Parts Cost
The cost of compressors or condenser units is similar. You can find them for as little as $600 or more than $3,000. Here are some other parts you may need to replace when your compressor breaks down:
- Fan motor ($300 to $600)
- Capacitor ($10 to $200)
- Condenser coil ($400 to $1,200)
- Evaporator coil ($700 to $3,000)
Installation Cost
The installation cost is typically equal to the cost of the new unit. You can expect the job to take at least 8 hours to complete at a rate between $50 and $150 per hour.
Manufacturers Warranty AC Compressor Repair Cost
Did you know that your manufacturer’s warranty only covers parts? Most homeowners don’t realize that.
Most warranties only last up to 10 years, with some expiring in 5 years or less depending on if the homeowner registered the AC unit with the manufacturer. Goodman and Ruud, the cover compressor fails after 5 years.
Rheem covers some single-stage and two-stage units for 10 years, while others are only guaranteed 5 years. Lennox and Trane by American Standard both guarantee higher-end units for 10 years or more.
It is not uncommon for manufacturers to warranty home ac compressors for different periods depending on the model. So, you should check with your AC company.
If your outside unit is under warranty, the manufacturer will provide replacement parts, but they will not pay for a technician to install the new parts.
So, you are looking at between $600 and $1500 for labor even with your manufacturer’s guarantee. Additionally, the company may not cover the refrigerant cost, and it will not pay to upgrade your system.
Home Warranty Central Air Conditioner Repair Cost
Home warranties cover repair and replacement costs for most of the systems and appliances in your home. When you make a claim under your warranty plan, you are required to pay a deductible.
Deductibles or service call fees are usually between $75 and $150. After you pay the fee, your plan will pay to repair or replace your HVAC system.
How Much Will Your Home Warranty Pay?
The amount that your home warranty will pay for repairs is subject to the limits on your plan. However, most providers pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for air conditioner repairs.
Top companies also cover the refrigerant cost. First American Home Warranty offers one of the best HVAC plans. It covers system conversions. If your existing evaporator uses a banned refrigerant, they will replace it too.
Replacing your compressor costs about $1,200 on average. So, with a quality plan, you should only have to pay your deductible out of pocket.
