Is $5,000 to replace AC compressor a fair price?
Project Details
My AC unit is only 7 years old and is now outside of warranty. The breaker tripped, and the unit stopped cooling; the fan runs, but the compressor doesn't. Two technicians initially thought it was the capacitor, but replacing it didn't get the compressor running. A third estimate also indicates the compressor is bad. I'm skeptical about the high prices quoted for the capacitor ($282-$455 for a $40 part) and feel like I might be taken advantage of as a single woman. I've never had issues with the AC before. The power company technician who reset the breaker noted the unit was low on refrigerant but couldn't add it. I'm trying to decide whether to replace just the compressor for around $5000 or the entire unit for over $10,000. I'm concerned that if I only replace the compressor, other parts might fail soon given the unit's age, but I don't plan to be in this house for more than 5 years. I change the air filter monthly.
Quote Details
Quote to replace the mechanically failed compressor in the existing 7-year-old Goodman AC unit. This diagnosis was made after replacing the capacitor did not resolve the issue. - Work: Replace existing AC compressor - Includes: New capacitor (already replaced as part of diagnosis)
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More Details
Category
HVAC
Price
$5,000
Quote Date
May 16, 2025
Location
Virginia
Brand/model
Goodman
System type
Air conditioner
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