Is It Worth Replacing the Compressor on an AC Unit in Charleston, WV?

It’s never good news when someone tells you that you need a new air conditioning compressor. It’s one of the most expensive parts of your HVAC system. 

You might wonder, “Is it worth replacing the compressor on an AC unit, or would a full replacement be the smarter choice?” In many cases, replacing the entire system makes more financial sense, but the answer depends on several factors. 

The only way you can know for sure is to ask a professional you can trust. If you need AC repair services in Charleston, WV, call Best Virginia Heating & Cooling. We can inspect your system and tell you whether a compressor replacement is your best option or if a new unit would save you more in the long run.

Learn more about what you should consider before making your decision.

What Is an Air Conditioning Compressor?

Did you know that your air conditioner doesn’t produce cold air? It relies on the compressor to circulate refrigerant and remove heat from your home.

The compressor’s job is to pressurize the refrigerant and turn it into a high-temperature gas. As the refrigerant travels through your system, it absorbs heat inside your home and then releases it outside through the condenser coil. Without the compressor, the refrigerant wouldn’t be able to flow, and your system wouldn’t cool your Charleston home.

How To Decide Whether To Replace Your Air Conditioning Compressor in Charleston, West Virginia

If you’re not a professional HVAC technician, determining whether you need a repair or replacement can be a daunting task. You don’t want to waste money prematurely buying a whole new system. But you also don’t want to ignore issues that could cost you more down the line. 

The following steps can help you figure out the best course of action.

Consider Your System’s Age

A typical air conditioner lasts 15 to 20 years. If your system is approaching this age and the compressor starts to fail, it is better to buy a new one. 

However, if you recently spent a couple thousand dollars on a brand-new system and now have to factor in the compressor replacement cost, it’s a smart move to call a professional to assess your options.

In either of these situations, you should consult an HVAC technician you trust before making a decision.    

Check the Warranty Status

If you recently bought your air conditioning system, it might still be under warranty. Most come with up to 10 years of coverage.

Check the manufacturer’s website and enter your model and serial number. Most brands have an easy-to-use warranty lookup tool, so it’s worth taking a minute to check. 

Think About Energy Efficiency

Before asking yourself, “Is it worth replacing a compressor on an AC unit?” you should consider how much you could save with a newer, more energy-efficient system.

Although a full replacement may cost Charleston residents, more upfront, lower energy bills could quickly make up for the difference. In just a year or two, those savings could easily add up to more than the cost of a new compressor. 

Matched System Considerations 

HVAC units are not designed to be modular. When you pair an older cooling system with a newer compressor, one might be unable to keep up with the other. This will cause your monthly bill to dramatically increase.

Newer systems use newer refrigerants that aren’t compatible with older equipment. Choosing to upgrade your entire system at one time ensures you to use the latest refrigerant instead of relying on costly, outdated options.

Factor in Labor Costs

Don’t just look at the cost of the hardware. Labor makes up 30% to 50% of the total cost of HVAC work, making it a significant part of your final bill. If you replace just the compressor, you’ll still need to pay a technician to remove the old one, install the new one, and ensure it works properly.