The compressor for an HVAC unit is an essential component to ensure that it runs as it should, but replacing it is rarely cheap. That doesn’t mean that you should simply ditch your HVAC system if it’s not working as it should. Here’s what you need to know about having an HVAC compressor replaced so you can avoid paying too much.
The Cost of an HVAC Compressor
The cost of a compressor can vary significantly depending on a number of different factors, but it can be broken down into a ballpark figure. The cost of a compressor in the United States will generally fall somewhere in the range of 300 to 650 dollars, but that’s only telling half the story. That’s because the number can rise to as high as roughly $2000 when you take into consideration the cost of labor from a qualified technician. That being said, getting a professional to get the job done is worth the price. Replacing a compressor can be a complicated task, and that’s especially true when dealing with more complex units designed for commercial use.
Factors to Consider
If there seems like a large amount of variance in those quotes, you aren’t wrong. There are a number of different variables that go into determining the cost of both parts and labor for a compressor replacement, and understanding them is important if you’re looking to avoid getting scammed with your service. Before settling on an estimate, take into consideration:
- The size of the unit. This can have a major impact on the cost of your compressor, but it’s important to not go with a unit that’s too big or too small. The latter will fail to effectively cool the required space, while the former will turn on and off more frequently, quickly wearing down the compressor.
- Compressor size. The compressor size is directly related to the tonnage of your AC unit. Tonnage refers to how much heat the unit can remove from the air. Once you know the tonnage of your unit, you can more accurately determine the size, and pricing, of a replacement.
- The reputation of your contractor. Not all HVAC repair and installation companies are the same, and that’s why it’s important to only work with the best. Relying on referrals from friends and family or carefully researching the company in question can have a drastic impact on how much you pay and the effectiveness of the service.
In many ways, the air compressor is the beating heart of an HVAC unit. If yours has failed, don’t hesitate to call 408-295-2182 to receive an estimate.