About The Author: Travis Baugh is a Digital Brand Marketing Manager for Bryant, where he creates clear, helpful content to guide homeowners through heating, cooling, and indoor air quality decisions. His goal is to empower readers with the knowledge they need to choose the right comfort solutions for their home—confidently and comfortably.
AC Compressor Guide
By Travis Baugh
An AC compressor is a vital component in any air conditioning system, playing a key role in cooling your home by circulating refrigerant and enabling heat transfer. In this article, we’ll dive into what an AC compressor is, how it works, and go through the replacement process for an air conditioning compressor. Keep reading to learn more or reach out to your local Bryant dealer for immediate assistance.
What Is An AC Compressor?
An AC compressor is a crucial component of an air conditioning system that plays a key role in cooling your home. It is responsible for compressing and circulating refrigerant through the system, which allows the heat from inside your home to be absorbed and released outside.
How Does An AC Compressor Work?
The compressor is typically located in the outdoor unit of the air conditioner. It takes in low-pressure, cool refrigerant gas from the evaporator coil inside the house and compresses it, turning it into a high-pressure, hot gas. This high-pressure gas is then sent to the condenser coil (also in the outdoor unit), where it releases the absorbed heat and cools down, turning back into a liquid. The AC refrigerant then travels through the system again, repeating the cycle of heat absorption and release, which ultimately cools the indoor air.
In simple terms, the AC compressor helps regulate the flow of refrigerant in the system and is essential for the cooling process, making it one of the most important parts of an air conditioner.
“The compressor is like the heart of the unit,” David Fowler, owner of Family Heating and Air in Pensacola, Florida, said. “It pumps the refrigerant throughout the system. Without it, there’s no heat transfer, so the air doesn’t get hot or cold.
“You can also think of it like the motor of your car — if the motor isn’t working, the car won’t move. If the compressor isn’t working, the air isn’t moving.”
Signs of a Failing AC Compressor
A failing central air conditioner compressor can cause a range of issues that affect your cooling system’s performance. Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Warm Air: If your AC starts blowing warm air instead of cool air, the compressor may not be circulating refrigerant properly, leading to inadequate cooling.
- Strange Noises: Grinding, squealing, or clanking noises from the outdoor unit could indicate that the compressor’s internal components are damaged or failing.
- Lack of Cool Air Flow: If the airflow from your AC seems weak or inconsistent, it may signal a compressor issue, as the compressor is responsible for pushing refrigerant through the system.
- Tripped Circuit Breaker: A failing compressor may cause the electrical circuit to trip frequently, as it struggles to start or operate.
- Increased Cooling Bills: If your split AC unit compressor isn’t functioning properly, the system may run inefficiently, leading to higher energy consumption and increased utility costs.
- Visible Leaks: Refrigerant leaks around the compressor or other AC components could be a sign that the compressor is damaged or malfunctioning.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact your local Bryant dealer for a thorough inspection and potential compressor replacement.
Seven Steps of the Air Conditioner Compressor Replacement Process
Replacing an AC compressor is a complex task that requires the expertise of a professional HVAC contractor like your local Bryant dealer. The compressor is a critical part of the cooling system, and improper AC installation or handling can lead to system failure or damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what the air conditioner compressor replacement process typically looks like when working with an HVAC professional:
1. Initial Inspection and Diagnosis
The HVAC contractor will start by thoroughly inspecting your air conditioning system to confirm that the compressor is indeed the issue. This often involves checking for signs of compressor failure (like strange noises, lack of cooling, or refrigerant leaks). The contractor will also evaluate the entire system to ensure there are no other underlying issues (e.g., electrical problems, refrigerant leaks, or damage to other components like the condenser or evaporator coil).
2. Turn Off Power and Remove Old Compressor
The technician will first turn off the power to the system to ensure safety during the AC replacement. The HVAC contractor will then safely remove the refrigerant from the system, following proper guidelines to avoid environmental hazards. Refrigerant must be recovered and disposed of correctly. The old compressor will be disconnected from the refrigerant lines, wiring, and any other components it’s connected to, like the AC capacitor or fan motor.
3. Remove and Replace the Compressor
The technician will remove the faulty compressor from its housing or compartment within the outdoor unit. Depending on the system, this may require unbolting the compressor and disconnecting it from various mounting brackets. Once the old compressor is removed, the new unit is carefully installed. This involves connecting the refrigerant lines, electrical wiring, and ensuring the compressor is securely mounted in place.
4. Recharging the System and Checking Refrigerant Levels
The HVAC contractor will then recharge the system with the proper amount of refrigerant. They will ensure the refrigerant charge matches the manufacturer’s specifications for optimal performance and efficiency. The technician will also perform a thorough check for any refrigerant leaks around the compressor and other connections to ensure everything is properly sealed.
5. Electrical Checks and System Testing
The technician will verify all electrical connections are secure and properly hooked up to the new compressor, including connections to the thermostat and the capacitor (if necessary). After everything is connected and secured, the technician will power up the unit and perform a full system test. This includes running the AC through a cooling cycle, monitoring the compressor's operation, and ensuring it’s functioning properly without any issues like unusual noises or improper cooling.
6. Final Inspection and Clean-Up
Once the system is confirmed to be running correctly, the HVAC contractor will do a final inspection, ensuring all components are in place and working as they should. The technician will clean up any debris, refrigerant, or other materials used during the replacement process. They will also provide you with the old compressor for disposal or recycling, if required. Some HVAC contractors may also provide documentation of the repair and a warranty on the new compressor, outlining any maintenance recommendations or next steps.
7. Post-Installation Advice
After the replacement, your HVAC contractor may offer tips on maintaining your AC system to ensure it runs efficiently and extends the lifespan of your new compressor. This could include recommendations for regular AC maintenance, air filter replacement, and other system care practices.
A/C Compressor Cost
The cost of an A/C compressor can vary significantly depending on factors such as the make and model of your system, labor costs, and whether you choose to replace the entire compressor or just specific components. On average, the cost of replacing an A/C compressor typically ranges from $800 to $2,500, including both AC parts and labor. The price for just the compressor unit itself can be anywhere from $400 to $1,500, depending on the brand and type of air conditioner you use.
Labor costs generally account for a significant portion of the overall price, ranging from $300 to $1,000, as replacing a compressor involves several steps, including evacuating refrigerant, removing the old compressor, installing the new one, and recharging the system.
Additional factors that could influence the cost include the age of your HVAC system, whether you need to replace other parts (such as the accumulator or expansion valve), and the need for refrigerant recharging. It’s important to get multiple quotes and consult a professional HVAC technician to ensure the proper diagnosis and fair pricing
Get Your AC Compressor Needs Met By Your Local Bryant Dealer
Working with a Bryant dealer for your AC compressor needs ensures you receive top-quality air conditioning service and expert guidance backed by a trusted brand. Bryant dealers are trained professionals with in-depth knowledge of air conditioner systems, ensuring the correct compressor replacement, installation, and system optimization. Additionally, a Bryant dealer can provide long-term support and maintenance advice, giving you peace of mind that your AC unit will run smoothly for years to come. Schedule an appointment with your local Bryant dealer today.
AC Compressor FAQs
Replacing an AC compressor typically costs between $1,200 and $2,800, including parts and labor, depending on your system and location.
The AC compressor is the component that pressurizes and circulates refrigerant through the system, enabling your air conditioner to cool your home.
Signs of a bad compressor include the AC not cooling, unusual noises, the unit not turning on, or frequent tripping of the circuit breaker.
Sudden warm air can be caused by low refrigerant, a malfunctioning compressor, dirty coils, or electrical issues in the system.
No, running your AC with a bad compressor can damage other components and lead to costly repairs. It’s best to shut off the system and schedule service with an HVAC professional.
Low refrigerant levels, electrical issues, or dirty coils are the most common causes of compressor failure. These conditions make the compressor work harder, leading to premature wear.
An AC compressor typically lasts 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance and correct refrigerant charge.
If the compressor fails, the system can’t circulate refrigerant, so no cooling occurs. You may hear clicking or humming sounds, and the outdoor unit may not start.
Damage often results from overheating, electrical surges, or debris in the refrigerant lines. Regular maintenance helps prevent these issues.
Learn More About Air Conditioners
- Learn about how does air conditioning work
- Understand the value of AC tune ups
- Get help with an AC not working or AC not blowing cold air
- Find out how long do AC units last?
- Learn how to clean air conditioners
