Repairing Guides

how much to repair an ac compressor

by Darrick Schuster Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Air conditioner repair cost guide

Repair Average cost to fix
AC coil cleaning $100 – $400
AC compressor replacement $600 – $2,500
AC compressor repair hard start kit $100 – $270
AC condensate pump replacement $100 – $450
Apr 27 2022

Complete AC compressor replacement cost ranges from around $800 to $2,800, so the labor portion of that bill would be between $400 to $1,600. The exception is for compressor replacement in a window unit, which averages $100 to $200. Typical labor costs run from $50 to $150 per hour.Jul 6, 2022

Full Answer

How much does it cost to repair an AC compressor?

The cost of an AC compressor unit can range from $195 to $736 for the part itself, while the cost for parts and labor can be between $376 to $986. This will depend on the model of car and how much work is involved in the repair, with some units being substantially more difficult to replace than others.

How much to replace AC compressor?

Toyota Camry AC Compressor Replacement Cost

  • Labor costs are estimated between $251 and $317 while parts are priced between $596 and $682.
  • This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific model year or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
  • This range is based on the number and age of Toyota Camry's on the road. ...

How difficult is it to repair an Auto AC compressor?

Symptoms Of Bad AC Compressor

  1. Higher Temperatures Than Normal In The Cabin. One of the first signs which is really to recognize symptoms of bad AC compressor is the AC no longer blowing as ...
  2. Loud Noise When Compressor Is Running. When the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operates, it tends to have some noise when it’s kicking on and off.
  3. Moisture Leaks. ...

More items...

How much does an AC compressor cost?

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 ...

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Is it worth repairing AC compressor?

One factor to consider is whether or not your compressor itself is still under warranty. If it is, that means that you are not going to have to pay for the compressor, but only the labor required for the replacement. If this is the case, then replacing the compressor may be worth considering.

Why is it so expensive to replace AC compressor?

If you have a large AC unit, then you can expect an expensive AC compressor. That's because this part is needed to circulate the refrigerant through the entire system. As more parts are needed for the large unit to run, replacement components will always be more costly.

How long should an AC compressor last?

about twelve yearsYour air conditioner compressor should last the whole lifespan of your air conditioner, about twelve years or more if you choose a ClimateCare air conditioner. However, it might not last that long if your air conditioner is too small for the space it's cooling, or if you don't keep your air conditioner well-maintained.

How do I know if my AC compressor is bad?

Clicking, ticking, or rattling sounds coming from your AC are signs of trouble. Either your compressor has gone bad or something else is wrong. These sounds are definitely a sign to schedule your air conditioner maintenance. Puddles or moisture around any part of your HVAC system could mean there's a refrigerant leak.

How long does an AC compressor last?

They can last the lifetime of the car, but generally a compressor’s life span is around 10-12 years and 150 to 200K miles.

What happens if a compressor breaks while engaged?

If this part breaks while engaged, the compressor will always be running. If it breaks while disengaged, it won’t run at all.

How does an AC compressor work?

How Does the AC Compressor Work? The air conditioning compressor is powered by mechanical energy from the drive belt on your engine, and compresses R134a (or other refrigerants) . It is essentially a pump, drawing in refrigerant, compressing it, and pumping it out. This pressurized refrigerant then makes its way through the AC system, ...

What does a car compressor do?

Your car’s air conditioning compressor does just that – it compresses refrigerant and keeps it moving through the entire AC system. It’s a crucial part of what makes your car’s AC work, and if you have AC trouble on a hot day, you’ll want to know more what it does, and how to replace it should it go bad.

Why is my AC not working?

It’s important to understand that your vehicle’s AC not working could be caused by a number of issues anywhere from just being low on refrigerant, a bad cycling switch or relay, or a faulty compressor. That’s why it’s important to correctly diagnose what’s wrong with your AC system before you start replacing parts.

How much does it cost to fix an air conditioner compressor?

Air conditioning compressor repair costs $100 to $250 for a hard start kit. If the AC makes a grinding noise, it may be a loose bearing. A squealing noise indicates a leaking bearing. For extensive damage, most HVAC services recommended installing a new compressor.

How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor?

AC compressor replacement costs $1,200 to $1,900 on average. If the air conditioner is blowing warm air, vibrating, or making noises when starting, you may have a bad AC compressor. The compressor changes liquid gas into cold air to cool a home and takes a few hours to replace.

How much does it cost to replace an evaporator coil?

On average, an AC evaporator coil replacement costs $675 to $1,300. If your AC unit is frosty, the evaporator coil is most likely frozen. Also, if the air conditioner smells bad, there could be bacteria buildup on the coil. The cold liquid (refrigerant) inside the coil absorbs the heat away from your home.

Why is my AC coil freezing?

The evaporator coil is most likely frozen. The cause is generally a lack of airflow over the evaporator coil, which is caused by a plugged filter. Without airflow, moisture from the air will collect on the evaporator coil and freeze. Turn off the AC unit, let the ice melt, change the filter, and try again.

What certification do I need to be an HVAC technician?

At the minimum, your technician should be “Level II Certified” or have a “Universal Certification” to work on your central air conditioner.

How much does it cost to fix an AC coil leak?

An AC evaporator coil leak repair costs $1,300 to $2,000. Pinhole leaks in the evaporator coil can develop as a result of VOCs combined with the moisture in the air. Acids will form and adhere to the coil, causing slow leaks. If your AC unit starts blowing warm air, it might be an indication that you have a leak.

What to do if your AC doesn't come on?

First, check the circuit breaker. It’s possible it has just tripped. If you flip the circuit breaker and the AC still doesn’t come on, it may be a thermostat problem.

How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor?

Replacing an AC compressor will cost between $400 to $1,200 for labor. HVAC contractors typically charge $50 to $150 per hour, although labor costs vary by region. In more expensive areas, such as San Francisco or New York, the service is likely to cost more.

How much does an air conditioner compressor cost?

You will most likely pay around $1,200 on average for an air conditioning compressor. However, most people will find themselves paying between $800 and $2,800. Expect to pay $400 to $1,600 for parts, with labor, at $50-$150 per hour, making up the rest of the cost.

How to tell if AC compressor is working?

How To Know If The AC Compressor Is Working. Check the compressor fan air with your hand. If the air is just cool or slightly warm, these are signs of a worn or bad air conditioner compressor. If the AC compressor gets hot, it may be a sign that your air conditioner compressor is bad.

How much does a compressor cost?

A compressor will cost anything from $100 to $1,800, but this differs according to the system you already have. Central AC and Mini Split systems work similarly. A condenser unit houses the unit outside. There’s a small cost variation between them, depending on the brand.

What is compressor maintenance?

If you have a split ac, the term compressor maintenance mainly refers to the condensing unit located outside. The Compressor is housed in this unit. There are several ways to protect a compressor and keep it trouble-free.

How much does it cost to fix a leak in a R240A?

It may only cost $200 to locate the source of a leak, but repairs can come to $1,700 or more. If your system runs r22, it may be better to upgrade to a more recent r240a system. In addition to the cost of leak repair, there may be additional expenses, such as freon refills at $150 to $350.

How to keep AC unit from freezing?

If the outside temperature falls under 40 degrees Fahrenheit, prevent it from freezing by wrapping it in insulating material. Ensure the condenser unit is not blocked by branches or other vegetation.

How Much For A New AC Compressor?

To properly answer the question ‘how much does an air compressor cost?’, we’ll need to first break the overall cost down.

Should You Replace Your AC Compressor, Or Buy A New AC Unit?

This is a question to which the answer will depend entirely on your own circumstances. While AC compressor repair, parts replacement, and labor per hour costs can often cost thousands of dollars, brand new AC units can often cost even more.

Is It Better To DIY Or Hire An HVAC Professional?

Although replacing the compressor could be possible for somebody with some advanced home DIY skills, I recommend having an HVAC professional carry out any replacements or repair work.

My Final Thoughts

Although it can be expensive to repair or replace a compressor or get a new AC entirely, I hope that this guide has given you an idea of what you should be paying without being ripped off.

How much does it cost to replace an AC unit?

A typical price range for a complete AC unit replacement is $3,300 to $6,000. The actual cost depends on the unit brand, contractor labor rates and how long it takes to complete the job.

How long does an air conditioner compressor last?

In the northern part of the U.S., air conditioner compressors last 15 to 20 years, while in the south, AC compressors can last 8 to 10 years. Routine maintenance, regular check-ups and periodic filter changes will help keep the AC unit in great shape and prolong the compressor’s lifespan.

What are the parts of an air conditioner?

There are a variety of air conditioning systems that you can use to cool your home — window units, portable systems, ductless air conditioners and central air conditioning systems. No matter what system you choose, they all work in basically the same way. According to The Spruce, there are five important parts to every air conditioner: 1 Refrigerant 2 Compressor 3 Condenser 4 Expansive valve 5 Evaporator coil

What happens when your AC compressor stops?

When your AC sputters to a stop on a 100-degree day, the compressor may not need to be replaced completely — sometimes, it just needs a repair. Identifying the symptoms of a bad AC compressor may help you troubleshoot the issue quickly and efficiently.

Why does my AC compressor slow down?

Dirty filters: Clogged and dusty filters restrict cool air from flowing and cause the AC compressor to slow down. Faulty thermostat: If your AC stops working or is no longer blowing cool air, it could be the thermostat batteries, sensors or other issue causing the device to read the wrong temperature.

What is compressor warranty?

The compressor is the main part of the AC unit. A warranty plan typically covers a significant portion of the cost to fix the compressor. If the compressor is not under warranty, it may be easier and cheaper to replace the entire AC unit.

Do central AC units work with the same compressor?

There are many brands to choose from, and each one provides great options for different budgets. Central AC units usually work best with a compressor from the same brand.

How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor?

AC Compressor Repair Cost. Because a compressor is so important to an air conditioning unit, repairs are often costly at $600 to $1,200. If your unit is old, it may be wise to consider replacing the compressor at the cost of $1,000 to $2,500.

How much does it cost to fix an HVAC unit?

For most issues with an HVAC package unit, the repair cost ranges from $300 to $500. An HVAC package unit includes both air conditioning and heating elements in a single configuration. The package unit may rely on electric or gas elements to provide heating and cooling to living spaces. These units can have issues such as ignition problems and thermostat malfunctions. However, in most cases, the fixes are relatively simple. Often, the unit just requires a filter change or other basic maintenance such as recharging.

How much does it cost to fix an air conditioner coil?

The cost to fix air conditioning coils by a professional will be $200 to $475. Air conditioning coils can become problematic if they freeze There are two types of coils in most units, an evaporator coil and a condenser coil. The evaporator type is filled with a refrigerant. If airflow around these coils is not warm enough, they can freeze and stop working properly. Condenser coils may need to be fixed by a professional. If they are dirty, they can cause performance issues. Cleaning and maintenance resolve the issue.

How much does it cost to fix a central air system?

Repairs for central air include clogged drain lines, which cost $100 to $200 to repair, thermostat replacement at $150 to $500, or refrigerant leaks or charges at $200 to $500. Central air or HVAC repair costs may end up being more due to a more complicated system.

How much does it cost to replace an evaporator coil?

The cost for replacement of an evaporator coil is $200 to $6,000. An evaporator coil’s purpose is to push all of the heat from inside the house into the condenser to be cooled. Signs of a bad evaporator coil are that the house isn’t cooling properly, and the air conditioning is running consistently.

How much does it cost to fix an American standard air conditioner?

To fix an American Standard air conditioner, you will pay $300 to $900. If an American Standard air conditioner isn’t cooling a home, there could be a few common causes. The models can malfunction due to a faulty capacitor or contractor. Compressor problems have also been reported in American Standard AC systems. An American Standard warranty usually covers an air conditioner compressor for up to ten years and all other parts for five years. An extended option may be added for an additional fee.

How much does a mini split cost?

The main problem with a ductless mini split is the air handler which can cost $750 to $900. These units are ductless, as the name implies. Ductless mini splits don’t require ductwork to cool a room, so repairs are normally simple and straightforward. Since the air handler can be an expensive fix, most mini split buyers consider extended warranty coverage to protect their system for five years or longer. Warranty coverage may cost under $100 to extend, depending on the overall system price and manufacturer.

How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor?

Replacing a home AC compressor is not cheap at all. The upper cost of all-in-one replacement for big 5-ton units can reach as high as $3,400. The total cost to replace a malfunctioning AC compressor is comprised of two parts:

How much does a central AC compressor cost?

On average, you can expect to pay: $450 – $2,150 for central AC compressor. $550 – $2,400 for mini-split (or heat pump) compressor. Mini-split or heat pump compressors (they are the same type) cost, on average, a bit more than central AC compressors. $120 – $225 for window rotary or inverter compressor.

How much does an HVAC technician get paid per hour?

Example: Let’s say an HVAC technician is getting paid $100 per hour. He successfully removes your old AC compressor and replaces it with a new one in 10 hours. The full labor cost is calculated like this:

Which air conditioner part has the best warranty?

The compressor is an air conditioner part that has the best and longest warranty protection. As we have seen, just the cost of the new AC compressor demands solid warranty protection.

Which is the cheapest air conditioner compressor?

Single-stage AC compressors are the cheapest. Two-stage ones are mid-level, and the variable capacity AC compressors are the most expensive to replace. Labor costs to replace an air conditioner compressor.

Do mini split AC units need ductwork?

In recent years, ductless mini-split air conditioners have become increasingly more popular due to easier installation, high SEER ratings, and no ductwork needed.

Do mini split AC units use the same compressors?

Note: Mini-split air conditioner and ductless heat pump (basically, an air conditioner that can heat as well) use the same kind of compressors. When we talk about the price of mini-split AC units, you can assume that the price to replace a compressor in a heat pump is basically the same.

How long does it take to replace an AC compressor?

Replacing your compressor will take several hours for most vehicles.

Why do I need to replace my AC compressor?

There’s a couple of reasons why you might need your AC compressor replaced. The most likely reason is usually due to the coil failing which is the most common cause that independent shop services as most do not service just the coil. When a coil fails, your AC will not function at all.

What happens when the compressor is engaged by the coil?

Once the clutch has become engaged by the coil, the compressor now turns from the drive belt. The Compressor. The compressor, when engaged by the clutch and coil, then compresses and pushes refrigerant throughout the AC system . In the olden days, the compressor had serviceable components inside. However, in today’s modern vehicles, ...

How long is a compressor warranty?

At most dealerships, replacing the entire compressor will come with a three-year 36k mile warranty, whereas most independent shops will have a one-year 12k mile warranty. A newer trend is that some aftermarket compressors will have no warranty unless the entire AC system is replaced.

How much does it cost to replace a clutch and coil?

To replace the clutch and coil (usually replaced together), the labor cost would range from around $250 to $350, and the dealership parts around $300 to $450.

What is the most expensive component in an AC system?

The compressor is the most costly component in the AC system and also the most critical to a functioning system. The compressor is composed of three different components which are as follows: The Clutch. The clutch is located on the front of the compressor and its purpose is to allow the compressor to be engaged or disengaged.

What is the core of an air conditioner?

The core of any air conditioning system is the compressor. In short, the compressor compresses the refrigerant vapor which starts the process of exchanging heat through the use of refrigerant’s thermodynamic properties. Refrigerant acts as both a liquid and a gas throughout the AC system. Through the various components in the AC system, ...

How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor?

It’ll cost $400 to $1,200 in labor to replace an AC compressor. An HVAC professional charges anywhere from $50 to $150 per hour. Labor rates vary mostly by region. If you live somewhere with a higher cost of living, like San Francisco or New York, expect to pay more for the service.

How much does it cost to fix an HVAC unit?

Repair costs vary by part but tend to range in the $125 to $450 on average. General HVAC repairs cost $150 to $550. Some repairs might hit or exceed $ 1,000 at which point you might want to consider simply upgrading to a new unit.

What does a heat pump compressor do?

It compresses the Freon in the line which forces it through the system so it can pick up and disperse heat in the evaporator and condenser coils.

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