Can You Replace AC Compressor Only?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The is the major part in your outside unit (called the condensing unit).

If your compressor is still under warranty, replace only the compressor

. … The compressor is still under warranty so you'll only have to pay for labor to fix it. No other major components have failed on your AC heat pump.

Is it worth it to replace AC compressor?

If it is, you won't have to pay for it—you'll just need to pay for the labor necessary to conduct the . If this is the case, then yes,

a compressor replacement is absolutely worth considering

. But the likelihood of a compressor breaking down entire while still under warranty is fairly slim.

Can you replace compressor only?

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.

Should I replace compressor or whole unit?

If the ac compressor goes bad on an older air conditioner (near 10 years old), then

it would be wise to replace the whole unit

. … If the compressor is replaced, it's still likely that other parts will begin to show signs of old age and break down.

Is Replacing an AC compressor difficult?

Replacing the

compressor itself is no harder than changing an

. The problem is the refrigerant. Is the system R12 or R134a? Due to EPA laws their quote probably includes recapturing the old refrigerant which you need special AC tools to do, along with a full recharge.

How much does it cost to replace AC compressor?

According to data by HomeGuide, the average cost to replace a home air conditioner compressor is about

$600 to $1,200 under warranty

, or $1,300 to $2,500 when it's not under warranty. Many HVAC contractors charge $100 to $150 per hour plus the cost of parts to repair a home AC compressor.

What happens if you don't replace AC compressor?

Refrigerant could

be leaking out of the compressor

and that could lead to potential health concerns such as coughs, headaches, irritated eyes and nausea. If all the refrigerant leaks out, it could cause the unit to overheat.

What happens when the compressor goes out in the AC unit?

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.

How long do AC compressors last?

The short answer is that your AC compressor and refrigerant should last

about 12-15 years

. Learning what crucial components, and how to maintain the compressor, can keep your AC running efficiently for its entire lifespan.

How do I know if I need to replace my AC compressor?

  1. Your AC Is Making Growling, Screeching, or Clattering Noises. Electrical failures in the compressor will make your AC emit unusual clunking or rattling noises. …
  2. You Have a Hard Time Getting Your AC to Start. …
  3. Your AC Stops Blowing Cold Air. …
  4. Circuit Breaker Problems. …
  5. Diminished Airflow.

How long does it take to change a compressor?

The replacement of the compressor is

about 1.5 hours

and does not include the recover or evacuate and recharge of the system. The orifice and accumulator is additional components that would need to be replaced. The system may need to be flushed out also for additional labor.

What are the signs of a bad AC compressor?

  • A Lack of Hot Air Being Released Outside. …
  • Loud or Strange Noises From the Unit. …
  • Failure of the Compressor to Turn On. …
  • Circuit Breaker Tripping. …
  • Leaks Around the Air Conditioning Unit. …
  • Warm Air Instead of Cool Air Being Delivered to the House. …
  • Reduced Airflow.

Can you drive with a bad air compressor?

It is

most likely OK to operate your vehicle

even thought the a/c compressor has failed. … As long as the compressor pulley is rotating smoothly, without wobble or noise, it shouldn't affect belt tension or operation of the other belt-driven accessories.

How much does it cost to replace outside AC unit?

A new outdoor AC unit installed costs the average homeowner

$3,300 to $4,000

to replace a basic outdoor air conditioner unit.

What does a bad home AC compressor sound like?

What does a bad AC compressor sound like? Many

times it will simply sound louder than it usually does

. There are also instances when you may notice a rattling sound, which could mean a fan has become loose in the condenser unit.

What causes an AC compressor to stop working?


Dirty condenser coils

.

Blocked suction lines

.

Low refrigerant charge

.

Incorrect suction line size

.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.