As an expert in the HVAC industry, I have seen countless air conditioning units come and go. And one thing that remains consistent is the value of certain components within these units. While the overall value of an AC unit may vary depending on its age, brand, and condition, there are certain parts that are always worth money.
The Compressor
When it comes to the most valuable part of an AC unit, the compressor takes the top spot. This is because it is essentially the heart of the unit, responsible for compressing and circulating refrigerant to cool the air.Without a functioning compressor, an AC unit is essentially useless. Compressors can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on the size and type of unit. And because they are such an essential component, they hold their value well even when the rest of the unit may be outdated or damaged.
The Condenser Coil
The condenser coil is another valuable part of an AC unit. This component is responsible for releasing heat from the refrigerant as it circulates through the system. Without a functioning condenser coil, the refrigerant cannot cool down and the entire unit will fail. Condenser coils can be made from different materials such as copper or aluminum, with copper being more valuable due to its durability and efficiency.The cost of a condenser coil can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on its size and material.
The Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is located inside the indoor unit and is responsible for absorbing heat from the air as it passes through. This cooled air is then circulated back into the room, providing a cool and comfortable environment. Without a functioning evaporator coil, the AC unit will not be able to cool the air. Similar to the condenser coil, evaporator coils can also be made from different materials such as copper or aluminum. And just like the other components, copper coils are more valuable due to their efficiency and durability.The cost of an evaporator coil can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
The Fan Motor
The fan motor is responsible for circulating air through the unit and into the room. It works in conjunction with the compressor and coils to provide cool air. Without a functioning fan motor, the unit will not be able to cool the air effectively. Fan motors can vary in price depending on their size and type, but they are generally less expensive than other components such as compressors or coils. However, they are still a valuable part of an AC unit and can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.The Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the substance that is responsible for absorbing heat from the air and cooling it down.It is essential for an AC unit to function properly and without it, the unit will not be able to cool the air. The value of refrigerant can vary depending on its type and amount. Some refrigerants, such as R-22, are being phased out due to their harmful effects on the environment. This has caused their value to increase significantly in recent years. On the other hand, newer refrigerants such as R-410A are more readily available and therefore have a lower value.
The Control Board
The control board is the brain of the AC unit, responsible for controlling and coordinating all of its functions.It receives signals from the thermostat and relays them to the various components to ensure the unit is running efficiently. Control boards can vary in price depending on their complexity and brand. They can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. And because they are such an essential part of the unit, they hold their value well.
The Value of Regular Maintenance
While these components may hold their value well, it is important to note that regular maintenance can greatly extend the lifespan of an AC unit and its components. By keeping the unit clean and well-maintained, these valuable parts can continue to function effectively for many years. Regular maintenance also helps to prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line.By catching any issues early on, you can save yourself from having to replace an entire component, which can be much more expensive than a simple repair.
