How Much Does an AC Compressor Actually Cost?

When the compressor on an air conditioner stops working, the air conditioner can no longer cool the air, so it's important to contact an HVAC repair professional as soon as possible to fix it. On average, an AC compressor replacement will cost about $800 to $2,300, though most folks will pay about $1,200 for parts and labor.

Find out more about AC compressor costs to determine if replacing the compressor is a better choice than purchasing a new air conditioner.

What Does an AC Compressor Do?

The air conditioner compressor is responsible for pressurizing the refrigerant system, which is why it is often referred to as the heart of the air conditioner.

The AC compressor pumps the refrigerant throughout the air conditioning system, allowing the air conditioner to remove the heat from inside the home and transfer it outside. When the AC compressor is not working properly, the air conditioner cannot remove the hot air from the home. Instead, it simply moves air around, similar to an oversized fan. For this reason, replacing the AC compressor is a pressing matter than cannot be ignored.

AC Compressor Cost Factors

AC Compressor Size

The physical size of the compressor impacts the cost of the replacement materials. AC tonnage measures how much heat the air conditioner can remove from the home in an hour. A one ton air conditioner can typically remove 12,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) in one hour. As the size of the air conditioner increases, so does the price for the AC compressor replacement.

• 1.5 Ton: $700 – $1,300

• 2 Ton: $800 – $1,400

• 2.5 Ton: $900 – $1,600

• 3 Ton: $1,000 – $2,100

• 3.5 Ton: $1,100 – $2,200

• 4 Ton: $1,200 – $2,100

• 4.5 Ton: $1,300 – $2,300

• 5 Ton: $1,800 – $2,600

AC Compressor Type

If the cost of labor is eliminated, then the material cost for an AC compressor ranges from $250 to $2,800, depending on the compressor size, HVAC type, and the type of compressor. Generally, AC compressors come in three different options, including single-stage, two-stage, or variable-speed.

• Single-stage AC compressors are the most basic option available, which also makes them the most affordable to repair or replace. This type of AC compressor can only operate at one speed, instead of having a high, low, or variable setting. Plan to spend about $250 to $1,200 to replace a single-stage AC compressor.

• Two-stage AC compressors fall between single-stage and variable-speed compressors in pricing. You will pay about $1,000 and $2,000 to repair or replace a two-stage AC compressor. This type of compressor operates at a high or a low speed, depending on the cooling needs of the home.

• Variable-speed AC compressors offer the highest level of convenience, but come at a higher cost. This type of compressor runs are different speeds, allowing it to run consistently for longer periods of time without overexerting the system. Budget for about $1,500 to $2,800 to make repairs to a variable-speed AC compressor.
  

HVAC Type

Most residential homes will use one or four common air conditioning methods, including central HVAC, dual mini-split AC, window AC, or a heat pump.

• Central HVAC systems have an air conditioning unit outdoors that works with the existing furnace and HVAC ductwork to remove hot air from the home. AC compressor repairs for this type of system range from about $800 to $3,000 depending on the size of the air conditioner.

• Dual mini-split AC systems also have an indoor and outdoor unit, but they tend to be located relatively close together. Instead of relying on ductwork, the indoor units and outdoor unit are connected by a refrigerant line. Replacing the AC compressor for a dual mini-split air conditioner typically costs about $800 and $3,000.

• Window AC units sit in the window of the home so that half of the unit is inside and half is outside. This type of air conditioner has limited cooling potential for larger spaces. Replacing an AC compressor for a window AC unit is less expensive than it is for most other HVAC types at about $200 to $700.

• Heat pumps are commonly used in locations that have a relatively mild climate. This type of HVAC system cools the home by using a refrigerant system to absorb the heat and transferring it into the ground. Installing a replacement AC compressor for a heat pump system will cost between $800 to $3,000.
  

Brand

As with most items, the brand name the product is associated with can influence the cost of the AC compressor. Less expensive brands, like Amana, may have replacement compressors that cost between $350 to $1,200, while premium brands, like Lennox, offer replacement compressors for $600 to $2,300.

• Carrier: $450 to $2,000

• Coleman: $550 to $1,500

• Goodman: $350 to $1,200

• Rheem: $600 to $1,400

• Ruud: $600 to $1,400

• York: $550 to $1,500
  

Labor

The labor involved with air conditioner repair will typically range from about $300 to $900 to replace an AC compressor. Some DIYers with extensive air conditioner knowledge and skills may be able to replace the AC compressor on their own, saving on the cost of labor, but in most cases this isn't a job that a DIYer is capable of handling.

Even the professionals will take about four hours at an average labor rate of $75 to $150 per hour to complete the repair due to the complexity of the project.

Additional AC Compressor Costs

Warranties

Check for product details to determine if the air conditioner is still under warranty and if the AC compressor is covered. Warranties can vary between manufacturers, but most will typically cover the cost of the replacement compressor, so the homeowner will only need to worry about the $300 to $900 labor cost.

AC Compressor Repair vs. Replacement

As long as the issue is relatively minor, an HVAC repair professional should be able to fix the AC compressor within a couple of hours, dropping the cost of this job to about $75 to $300. Just keep in mind that most AC compressor problems are a sign that the component will fail in the near future and should be replaced as soon as possible.

Refrigerant Refill

If the air conditioning repair technician notices that the refrigerant levels are low, they will refill the refrigerant while they are replacing the AC compressor. This extra service will typically cost between $100 to $300. Some HVAC companies may offer free refrigerant refills.

DIY vs. Professional AC Compressor Installation

DIY installation may void your air conditioner's warranty and is not doable for the average DIYer. If you can handle this repair, it will still cost about $400 to $1,600 for the new compressor. A refrigerant recovery machine will cost $550 to $5,000, while an oxygen-acetylene torch ranges from $250 to $1,000. You may also need a vacuum pump which costs between $150 to $800.

Professional HVAC technicians will already have access to all necessary equipment and will be able to complete the job in about three to four hours. They should also be able to make the repairs without voiding the warranty, which could lead to a reduced cost for the replacement AC compressor.

How to Save on AC Compressor Cost

Start by shopping around for an HVAC repair company. Not all companies have the same labor rate or material prices, so you may be able to get the job done for a reduced cost. You can also save money by investing in generic brands, instead of opting for premium AC compressor parts.

However, the best way to save on air conditioner repair is to simply keep up with HVAC maintenance. Air conditioner service and maintenance appointments will generally cost about $75 to $200 per visit. By servicing the air conditioner once every one to two years, you can keep the HVAC system in good condition for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth replacing the compressor on an AC unit?

In most cases, it's worth it to invest in an AC compressor replacement instead of paying for an entirely new AC unit. The cost is significantly less for this repair and it can be completely relatively quickly by an HVAC technician.

What is the life expectancy of an AC compressor?

Generally, an AC compressor will last for about 12 to 15 years as long as the air conditioner is properly maintained. This means that a single AC compressor replacement could extend the life of the air conditioner by more than a decade in ideal situations.

Why are AC compressors expensive?

An AC compressor is a vital part of the air conditioning system to the point that the air conditioner cannot function properly without a working AC compressor. Similar to other mechanical devices, key components often have a higher price tag for replacement materials. Additionally, it can take three to four hours to replace, which comes with a proportional labor cost.

Read Next: How Much Does an Air Conditioner Really Cost to Install? What to Know

Read the original article on The Spruce.