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I just put a contract on a condo (in Austin) and had the inspection done. Everything checked out fine except the A/C compressor (the unit outside) is original... 30 years old... and I'm going to want to have a new one put in. Any idea what a middle-of-road A/C compressor would cost? I know they vary by SEER, etc. The condo is small: 980 square feet. I'm just looking for estimates so I can ask the seller for an allowance for a new compressor. Thanks!
At 30yo your whole system will need to be replaced. Today's systems use R-410A and the old ones used R-22. The components aren't compatible- compressor/A coil. And with new higher SEER ratings the furnace probably won't be the best fit either.
Besides, with that sq/ft you only need a 1-1/2ton unit at the very most.
If you're replacing the compressor you may want to take the opportunity to upgrade to a heat pump with a variable speed compressor. It'll cost a bit more but they're more comfortable and less expensive to operate especially if your current heat is electric resistance.
I just wrapped up getting quotes on a replacement system for my house (22 y/o unit, blower went out due to a clogged coil). Now, this is a 1550sq/ft house so a 2.5ton unit, inside, outside, installation, removal of all old equipment, etc... all done by a company who's techs are both NATE and ACCA certified. $4000, that's for the cheapest unit (13 SEER), and there was only 1 cheaper bid with a lower tier unit, it was lower by $100.
You may well not be replacing just Part of a system. But without more information, it's really impossible to know.
Be aware that while SEER rating is tossed around a lot, it is ONLY something that deals with cooling. Since your system is a Heating, Venting and Cooling unit, it's only part of the total picture. The cost difference between the lowest (14 SEER for 2015 by Gov mandates), and the upper tiers REALLY didn't make any sense, at all, in any way, for me. It costs more upfront that I could hope to recover over the estimated 20 year lifespan (house is already quite efficient).
Be careful what you ask for. A compressor is 1000-1400 but a 30 y/o condenser wouldn't be worth the repair. A new condensing unit would be the way to go and somewhere near k'ledgebldr's figure. A change out will be a mismatch and likely requires a permit and may trigger other efficiency measures.
You're really better off getting a figure from a qualified local outfit rather than one from the internet to avoid surprises.
This has been very educational! Thank you, everyone, for taking time to respond. I ended up having a trustworthy and recommended HVAC company out to take a look and give me a bid. He brought me up to speed on the new technology, making things compatible, etc. So yes, it will be more than just simply replacing the compressor!
I did end up lowering my bid on the condo, but I'm going to absorb part of the cost if the new system because it's such a great place... set in the Balcones Canyonland Preserve... and I can look out the living room and breakfast room windows and see DEER! It'll be like a little cabin in the woods!
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It'll be like a little cabin in the woods!
