My central air conditioner compressor has died

a slow and painful death (I had several repairs to wiring this past summer).

The unit is 12 years old, and, the average age runs from 10-15 years. So, it is not unusual for this to happen, I think.

The question I have is if it is possible to simply purchase a new compressor (I have a son-in-law who is ready, willing, and able to do whatever it takes to repair the unit as opposed to me buying a new one).

I have looked online, and, I don't see that a compressor is that easy to find or buy. On the other hand, my son-in-law tells me he has found compressors online for a fairly low price. The repairman who came last week to pronounce my compressor dead told me that it was almost as expensive to purchase a compressor as it is to purchase a whole new unit. The price he quoted was way beyond my means at this point.

Am hoping that there might be a cheaper way, but, if worse comes to worst, I will buy a few window units for next summer.

I am hoping that someone here has some experience with central air units.

Thanks in advance!

the old unit was 15 years old and wasn't very efficient.

we bit the bullet and bought a new unit but it cost big bucks

those "Big bucks".

Once I get a job, I may rethink this whole thing and go ahead and buy a new unit.

in NY you have some more options :hug:

...seriously consider getting a whole new unit, regardless. The difference between what you will spend on a new unit and what you would spend repairing the old unit will be paid for in a year or two by the efficiency of the new unit. There have been some serious advances in technology in the last decade.

Not only are the new units considerably cheaper to run, they use less freon and are at less risk for leakage, which is also good for the environment.

Sometimes there are programs to help homeowners upgrade the energy efficiency of their homes through local governments, power companies, and/or local Community Action Agencies. Check out the possibilities in your area, you might qualify for special discounts or assistance, especially if you have kids or elderly folks living in the house.

At least you have a few months to sort out your options and save up some cash...

sympathetically,
Bright

I think I am going to have to bite the bullet and buy a new unit when I can.

Thanks for the input!