What should I do in regards to my broken air conditioner? PLEASE HELP?

Question

The repairman said I need a new compressor, which costs 1900 dollars. But he recommended getting a whole new unit, which is 3,000 dollars, since my air conditioning system is 10 years old.

So do you think I should get the compressor for 1900 dollars, or would it be better to just buy a whole new unit?

Answer 1

Unless you can get a replacement compressor for less money I say go with the whole unit.

One reason they so often tell people to replace rather than fix an older system is that overtime the refrigerant mixed with oil becomes a little acidic from all the heating and cooling and the system is being eaten out, pitted, from the inside. This is one reason they don't go after leaks that pop up trying to fix them . The whole system has be compromised.

You are at the height of the a/c cooling business right now. I bet you would get lower estimates in a couple of months.

I would think a compressor alone depending on it's size (I don't know what other work he may think is needed like changing an expansion valve or cleaning coils) but a compressor not long ago would cost less than $1k depending on the cost of the compressor itself.

But costs of everything have jumped so much in the past year I may already be out of date.

But I surely would get more estimates.

Good Luck.

Answer 2

If you can, buy the new unit.  You're paying more than half for the compressor, you might as well buy the new unit.  Plus, you're going to have to get a new air conditioning system down the road anyway, so you are just spending more money if you buy the compressor.

Answer 3

Replacing a compressor is easy assuming you know what u are doing. A compressor does not cost that much to change.My advice to u is get more estimates,then take it from there.

Answer 4

Lots of money either way.... I think you better get some other opinions. I think you can get this fixed for a lot less than 1900. And I think you could get a new one for less than 3K. I always start by calling around and getting bids. People will jump through hoops if they think they can beat the competition's price. Estimates should be free. And if they are not free, move on. Let your fingers do the walking. What have you got to lose? I would never take the first offer.

Answer 5

If you're looking to save some money, ask about getting a used compressor. It's not uncommon to sell used parts for AC (at least where I live). It can prolong the life of your old AC system for less money while you save for a new unit, and still cost less than a new compressor.

I think a lot would depend on the manufacturer as well. 10 years is great for a Goodman but not as big a deal for a Trane.

Answer 6

those prices seem a bit high. get a few more estimates.

you re better off getting a new unit  bc new one will be at least 13 seer and a full 10 yr warranty.(better be).

to the guy that said that  10 yrs is old for a goodman and not a rheem or whatever, tell me the difference between the compressors they use. copeland or bristol prolly inboth.

Answer 7

I just had the same problem. 10years old, order a new unit $3000 is not bad, compared to $1900 for the compressor and you still have a ten year old unit. Good Luck

Answer 8

With a 10 year old unit you're wasting money to replace the compressor as there is no guarantee that something else won't break tomorrow. Buy a new, high efficiency unit. It will have a warranty and use less electricity, so your bills will be lower.