For many homeowners, the inner workings of home air conditioning systems may remain a mystery. Nevertheless, the essential function of these systems is clear: to provide refreshing, dehumidified air during scorching months.
When your air conditioner suddenly malfunctions, a faulty compressor could be the culprit. The aircon compressor serves as the heart of your HVAC system, responsible for cooling the air and maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. Should the compressor fail, it may lead to the need for a costly aircon compressor replacement.
How Do You Know If You Have Bad Aircon Compressor?
A failing aircon compressor can manifest through various signs, with diminished cooling capacity being the most prevalent indicator. As the aircon compressor circulates the refrigerant within the aircon unit, any malfunction can lead to the inability of the system to deliver cool air.
While reduced cooling capacity is a primary signal, other symptoms may also arise, potentially indicating different underlying problems with your aircon system. It’s crucial to be vigilant and identify these signs early on to address any issues promptly.
The following are common signs of a faulty aircon compressor:
- Warm air instead of cold air when the aircon is running.
- Frequent short cycling of the AC system.
- Water dripping from the aircon unit.
- Unusual clicking, ticking, or chattering noises coming from the AC unit.
- Air conditioning causing circuit breakers to trip.
- Higher electricity bills without a clear explanation.
- The AC unit experiencing overheating or freezing.
To accurately diagnose AC compressor issues, it is advisable to seek the expertise of an HVAC professional. Having a qualified expert inspect your unit will help identify the root cause of the problems mentioned earlier. If the compressor is found to be faulty, the HVAC expert may recommend a replacement to restore the proper functioning of your cooling system.
Replacement Cost of Aircon Compressor
There are a number of factors that affect the price of replacing an aircon compressor, such as:
- Compressor Type
The overall cost can be influenced by the type of compressor you have, with several options available, such as reciprocating compressors, rotary compressors, and scroll compressors.
- Unit Size
The size and tonnage of your air conditioner play a significant role in determining the cost. Larger units generally require more expensive compressors compared to smaller ones.
- Refrigerant
The cost of your aircon system can vary based on the type of refrigerant it uses. Older systems might have utilized R-22 refrigerant, which has been phased out due to environmental concerns and is now more expensive. On the other hand, newer systems often use R-410A, which is more environmentally friendly and commonly used in modern air conditioning systems.
- Warranty
The cost of replacing the compressor in your air conditioner could potentially be fully or partially covered if your unit is still under warranty. To determine if you qualify for any discounts or compensation, it’s essential to review the specifics of your warranty.
- Cost of Labor
The cost of labor for aircon compressor replacement can vary depending on factors such as your location, the complexity of the job, and the expertise of the HVAC expert you hire. To ensure you receive fair pricing, it’s recommended to obtain multiple quotes from different HVAC professionals.
- Additional Repairs
A compressor failure in the AC system can sometimes lead to damage to other components. If repairs are necessary for items like refrigerant lines or electrical components, the overall cost will increase.
AC Compressor- Replacement or Repair?
The air conditioner’s compressor serves as the heart of the system, responsible for circulating refrigerant and cooling your home. If problems arise with the aircon compressor, it may fail to deliver cool air, hindering comfort.
In recent years, the price of compressors has significantly increased, making the decision between replacing the unit or just the compressor more financially challenging. The cost difference between these options can be around 75 per cent, but it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits. Opting to replace aircon compressor rather than the entire unit may seem cost-effective initially, but keep in mind that older units might experience further issues, leading to additional expenses.
While some may believe that replacing the entire system is necessary when the aircon compressor fails, this isn’t always the case. However, given the relatively high cost of compressors and the likelihood of issues in older units, upgrading to a new, energy-efficient system can lead to reduced energy expenses. So, the idea of replacing the complete system holds some truth and should be considered as a viable option.
For any aircon compressor replacement, carefully weigh the costs, efficiency gains, and warranty coverage to make the most informed decision for your cooling needs.
Cost of AC Compressor by Type
The price of the compressor will differ significantly depending on the sort of aircon system you have.
| Type of AC Unit | Cost of AC Compressor |
| Central AC | $400 – $1,800 |
| Mini-Split | $400 – $1,800 |
| Heat Pump | $400 – $1,800 |
| Window Unit | $100 – $200 |
Cost of AC Compressor by Size
The price you spend for replacement also depends on the size of the compressor. The compressor must be more powerful as the aircon system gets larger.
| Size of AC Unit | Cost of AC Compressor |
| 5 | $1,650 – $2,750 |
| 4 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| 3.5 | $1,300 – $2,200 |
| 3 | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| 2.5 | $1,000 – $1,700 |
| 2 | $900 – $1500 |
| 1.5 | $800 – $1,400 |
Conclusion
Homeowners must grasp the costs and signs associated with a failing aircon compressor. By staying attentive and addressing compressor issues promptly, you can maintain a cool and comfortable home while making informed decisions about repairs or replacements that fit your budget and long-term needs.
For specialized assistance, Upton Aircon is a dependable company providing aircon repair services. With their industry expertise, they can accurately diagnose compressor problems and offer valuable guidance on the best solutions. To learn more, schedule your appointment by contacting us! Discover competitive aircon compressor prices and receive quality service from our knowledgeable team.