fair price to replace compressor...

I have 7 year old Bryant 3.5 Ton 10 SEER (R-22) unit that doesn't cool and makes grinding noises when it is started (also every 20 seconds after.) A repairman came to troubleshoot, and diagnosed a bad compressor.

He recommended two options:

1) Pay a flat fee of $1500 to replace the compressor (parts and labor.)

2) Purchase a brand new condenser unit at $3800 (13-14 SEER system w/R-22.)


I think it's more cost effective to just replace the compressor, being that I use the A/C maybe 4 months out of the year. Also, my A/C is not terribly old. At 28% electricity savings, I'd be saving a max of $1100 after 10 years.

My questions are the following:

-Is it $1500 a fair price for parts and labor?

-Is it difficult to replace a compressor? I don't know much about A/C repair aside from the basic theory behind refrigeration and cooling. I am only asking this because I found the compressor online for $700 and am questioning weather I'd be doing myself a disservice by attempting to do-it-myself.

-Is there a good reason to consider purchasing a new unit for $3800?

Thanks in advance for your responses and help!

 

No you cant change it yourself Your not EPA to work on freon.

Id get more bids here for sure.

If thats $3800 for just the outside thats high
You cant put a higher seer condenser unit on that old coil. if thats what he will do.
call around and see if you can find a HVAC guy to put the compressor in .If you buy it.

ED

 

Ed-

The contractor would replace both condenser and the indoor air conditioning coil for $3800. 13-14 SEER, 4 Ton Armstrong Air....

I'll have to find out more about the warranty on parts and see if a pro is willing to do the install if I purchase the condenser myself.


Thanks for your input!