When you live in Cedar Hill, TX, you know you’ll experience humid, subtropical weather a good part of the year. In the summer months, the outdoor temperatures can reach 100 degrees so most people heavily depend on their air conditioners to stay comfortable.
Since the air conditioner is unarguably the most important HVAC system within your home, it makes sense to know as much as you can about it to prepare you for potential issues.
As the leading Cedar Hill AC repair experts, homeowners often call us to ask questions like, “What is the most expensive part to replace on an AC unit?”
We’ll cover all the details in this post.
The Compressor: The Fulcrum of Your Air Conditioning Unit
The compressor is the most expensive component to replace in an AC unit, and it can cost up to $4,000.
It’s expensive for two major reasons. First, it’s responsible for circulating the refrigerant between the evaporator and condenser coils. Secondly, it’s a highly complex equipment with intricate details.
Thus, most HVAC contractors will advise doing all you can to keep your compressor in excellent shape.
Common Signs of AC Compressor Failure
Your AC compressor has failed or is about to fail if you notice any of the following signs:
Warm Air and Poor Indoor Air Quality
Is your space uncomfortable with the AC running? Has the indoor air quality dropped? Check the obvious possible causes like the wrong thermostat setting or clogged air filters.
If the thermostat settings are fine and your filters are not too dirty, you may have a broken compressor or refrigerant leak. Either way, you need to schedule repairs quickly.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips
Your home’s circuit breaker is designed to protect your home from electrical hazards. Using an air conditioner with a broken compressor is a hazard, so the breaker will trip to protect the unit and the rest of your electrical circuitry.
Noisy Operation
A bad compressor will give off banging or clicking sounds whenever you try to use your air conditioner. Additionally, you might find the outdoor unit vibrating as well.
Factors That Will Influence the Cost of AC Compressor Replacement in Cedar Hill, TX
Now you know the answer to “What is the most expensive part to replace on an AC unit?” you’ll want to know some of the things that will ultimately determine how much you pay for the replacement.
The cost of your AC compressor replacement will depend on the following factors:
- Compressor size. AC compressors vary in size depending on the type of air conditioner. Central air conditioning systems tend to have bigger compressors than window units.
- Type of compressor. The compressors in most air conditioners are either single-stage or two-stage systems. You can expect to spend a lot more replacing a two-stage compressor.
- Compressor brand. The compressor for any popular air conditioner brand will cost a bit more than one from an unknown brand.
- Labor costs. The HVAC technician will charge an installation fee based on the complexity of the job, the distance to your home, and other such factors.
Keep in mind that you’ll also need to pay the cost of any additional repairs alongside replacing the compressor.
Can You Repair the Compressor in Your Cedar Hill, TX, Air Conditioner?
Seeing how much an AC compressor replacement project will cost, you’ll want to know if it’s possible to repair the compressor instead of replacing it.
You can technically repair a compressor. An experienced HVAC technician can dismantle it and replace the damaged components or correct any electrical issues plaguing it. However, the cost of the repairs (in addition to the labor required) means it’s rarely a good idea.
Why pay 70-80% of the cost of a new compressor on repairs?
How to Avoid AC Compressor Troubles
You can avoid the hassle of compressor replacement throughout your air conditioner’s lifespan with regular maintenance. Maintenance work such as cleaning dirty coils, maintaining the refrigerant levels, and changing filters regularly can reduce the strain on the compressor.
You should also ensure the outdoor unit housing the compressor doesn’t have any obstructions around it.
Get Quality Air Conditioning Service in Cedar Hill, TX
Do you want further discussions on “What is the most expensive part to replace on an AC unit?” Are you looking for an HVAC contractor you can trust for affordable service in Cedar Hill, TX? We can help. Our technicians can do everything from compressor replacement to air vent cleaning.
Call Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating today at 972-914-0833 to schedule a consultation.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.