### The Compressor Is the Heart of Your AC
The AC compressor is the most critical and most expensive component in your air conditioning system. It pumps refrigerant through the system under high pressure — without it, no cooling occurs. Compressor problems range from relatively simple electrical issues (a bad capacitor preventing the compressor from starting) to catastrophic internal failure requiring full compressor replacement. Accurate diagnosis is everything — replacing a compressor that failed due to an electrical issue without addressing the electrical problem means the new compressor will fail the same way.
Overview
### What We Actually See When Called for "Compressor Issues"
Many service calls for "compressor failure" turn out to be capacitor failure — the run capacitor provides the electrical boost the compressor needs to start and run, and capacitors fail frequently (especially after 5–7 years of LA summer heat cycles). A bad capacitor is a $150–$300 repair. A failed compressor is a $1,200–$2,500 repair or often a full system replacement decision. We always test the capacitor and electrical system thoroughly before drawing a compressor failure conclusion.
### Hard Start Kits and Compressor Protection
For compressors that are struggling to start — particularly on hot days when line voltage is high and the capacitor is aging — a hard start kit can provide an additional electrical boost that gets the compressor running reliably and reduces stress on the motor windings. Hard start kits are an inexpensive intervention ($100–$175 installed) that can extend compressor life meaningfully. We install hard start kits on aging systems and on any system where the compressor is showing signs of hard-starting.
### When Compressor Replacement Doesn't Make Sense
If your compressor has failed catastrophically (locked rotor, internal short, burned windings), you face a real decision: replace the compressor or replace the system. On systems over 8–10 years old, full system replacement is typically the better investment — compressor warranty issues, refrigerant compatibility, and the age of all other components make putting a new compressor in an old system risky. We give you honest guidance.
Our Service Benefits
Accurate diagnosis first
We test capacitors, contactors, and wiring before concluding the compressor itself has failed. Many "compressor problems" are electrical component failures that cost a fraction of compressor replacement.
Hard start kits available
For struggling compressors, hard start kits provide a proven low-cost intervention that can extend compressor life 2–4 years on aging systems.
Honest repair vs. replace guidance
We tell you when it makes more financial sense to replace the system than repair the compressor. We don't push expensive compressor replacements on systems near end of life.
Warranty on repair work
Compressor replacements include the manufacturer parts warranty plus our 12-month labor warranty.
AC Compressor Repair Cost in Los Angeles
Pricing ranges for common ac compressor repair services. Your actual cost depends on equipment, complexity, and home configuration. We provide an exact written estimate before any work begins.
Compressor diagnostic
$125–$175
Compressor replacement
May be covered under warranty
$1,200–$2,800
Compressor hard start kit
$150–$250
Service calls start at $125. Prices include parts and labor unless noted. Financing available on equipment installations. Learn about financing →
What Los Angeles Homeowners Say
“Had LC install a mini split in our 1940s bungalow. The work was clean, the unit is incredibly quiet. Highly recommend.”
J
Jennifer L.Hollywood, CA
“Furnace was making a loud noise. LC diagnosed it quickly, cleaned and tuned the whole system, tested CO levels, explained everything clearly.”
K
Kevin A.Burbank, CA
“We converted our garage into an ADU and needed HVAC. LC installed a mini split — permits, electrical, everything. Our tenant loves it.”
C
Carlos M.Silver Lake, CA
Brands We Service & Install for AC Compressor Repair
We test the capacitor, contactor, wiring, and control board before evaluating the compressor itself. Accurate diagnosis saves you from unnecessary compressor replacement.
02
Compressor evaluation
We perform resistance tests and amp draw measurements to determine the compressor's actual condition.
03
Options and estimate
We present repair options (capacitor, hard start kit, or compressor replacement) and the system replacement alternative with honest analysis of each.
04
Repair or referral
We complete the approved work, test the system through a full cycle, and ensure proper refrigerant charge after any compressor work.
Customer Reviews
300+ verified reviews
5.0
Google Reviews196 reviews on Google
SM
Sharon Meoded
Los Angeles, CA
“Lior and his team installed an AC unit in my room that doesn’t have central AC and it works amazing! They were so professional and cleaned up fully after themselves. He kept me in the loop the entire process and when he came out prior to installing showed me step by step what they would be doing! Highly recommend ! Super professional”
Google Review
PW
Patricia Williams
Los Angeles, CA
“LC Heating and Air is a reliable, affordable solution for all your central air and heating needs. I am an out of town landlord and it can be difficult to find the assistance I need. LC Heating and Air took care of my tenants issues quickly and explained all issues before making necessary repairs. I will def use them again if need be!”
Google Review
NE
Naomi Eagleson
Los Angeles, CA
“I hired LC Heating & AC to replace the drain pumps in our Mitsubishi Mini Splits and clean the condenser and was pleased with the service. Leo was responsive, thorough, and professional. I chose this company based on the glowing reviews I read online and wasn't disappointed. My husband and I look forward to using our AC this summer!”
Google Review
OI
Osher Itzhaki
Los Angeles, CA
“Amazing service!! I called LC heating and air and was fortunate enough to have scheduled them for a same day appointment . Leo arrived on time and was super friendly, polite and fixed my ax in no time . The price was fair and he explained what further steps I shouted take to keep my ac unit running for more years Thank you LC!!!”
Google Review
JS
Justin Shapiro
West Hollywood, CA
“Great experience!!’ Leo came to my house in West Hollywood at 9pm !! I had an emergency, my ac stopped working out of no where i called LC heating and air from the phone call with the office to the time the tech came the service was just amazing. Leo came and had my ac running in no time. Thank you so much !! Highly recommended”
Google Review
GH
Greg Haroutunian
Los Angeles, CA
“Sunday morning discovered AC in the unit is not working, called everywhere, no one wanted to come the same day. LC Heating came the same day, fixed the problem which apparently wasn't easy to figure out. Very professional, calm and confident, pleasant to work with. Leo was the lead guy. Great experience, highly recommend it!”
Google Review
AV
Adam Valdies
Los Angeles, CA
“Leo and his team were amazing! I am so glad we called them to handle our AC/Heating issue. The problem was not clear at first and required substantial troubleshooting but Leo was extremely communicative and very professional throughout! He figured out the problem and we cannot thank him enough! Highly recommend!”
Google Review
LO
Leeyam Ohayon
Los Angeles, CA
“I called LC Heating & Air when my heating unit stopped working. He came quickly and fixed the problem fast. The technician was very kind and experienced. He explained the problem to me and gave me maintenance tips for the future. I definitely recommend LC Heating and Air if you're in need of these services.”
Google Review
AY
ariel. yona.
Los Angeles, CA
“Amazingly service me heater broke down and I was looking for a local company in my neighborhood. I found LC heating and air I can’t express in words how pleased I was with this company the owner Leo came out was very professional friendly and fixed my heater in no time !!! Highly recommended”
Google Review
KB
kevin benoit
Los Angeles, CA
“I cannot recommend this company more. They came, assess my issue and then ordered the right parts from the company and made an amazing install and transform my AC unit into a smart controlled AC unit which no Other HVAC company was able to do, or wanted to take the time that it took to do it”
Google Review
TY
Todd Yasuda
Los Angeles, CA
“Asher (LC Heating & Air) is the best, he kept me informed throughout the whole process. Everything he told me is exactly how things were done. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to work with. If you want to work with a reliable person and company, I would highly recommend him.”
Google Review
CK
claudia kleinschmidt
Los Angeles, CA
“Our AC was broken and had been dripping for a couple days. Once we called LC heating and air they sent out Asher to fix it immediately. He checked out the AC and fixed the problem on the spot. He was super professional and informative. Highly recommend Asher and the company!”
Google Review
DF
D Fan
Los Angeles, CA
“Leo is the absolute best! Had an emergency call and he came out right away in the early evening. Showed me how my units work and what the problem was. A few minutes later, it was fixed and working again! I cannot recommend this guy more highly. Call him and you'll be happy!”
Google Review
JM
Jamie Morgan
Los Angeles, CA
“LC Heating and AC is the best! I couldn’t recommend enough. It was a 100/10 experience. Helped me get to the bottom of repairing my AC that was very complicated and messed up by someone else. They are very professional and kind on top be being super knowledgeable.”
Google Review
DA
dan amiel
Los Angeles, CA
“Great service my heater stopped working out of the blue and we just had a new born I called lc heating and air they were the only ones that answered they came out and a hour my heater was up and running I couldn’t thank them enough . Highly recommended”
Google Review
YG
Yane G.
Los Angeles, CA
“Very helpful and very respectful. I called for a repair and was answered immediately, they were great in explaining what was going wrong and how they would fix it i was glad with there work and would definitely be calling them for any future repairs.”
Google Review
LA
Leetal Adelle Cohen
Los Angeles, CA
“We reached out to Leo and had a new HVAC system installed by him and his crew. Very happy with the results! Very professional, knowledgeable and patient. The whole process was very smooth, quick and clean. System works perfectly. Highly recommend”
Google Review
AM
Agam Mashiah
Los Angeles, CA
“I called lc heating to fix my heater in my house . We decided to replace the heater throughout the whole out process the customer service was great they were very communicative, professional and were very clean . Thank you again for the great job”
Google Review
CR
Charles Raffini
Los Angeles, CA
“HVAC system was leaking in the attic. Leo took my call late at night and came immediately. He stopped the leak and came back to make sure the system was working properly. Very responsive, good work and great value. Highly recommend them.”
Google Review
YY
yoav yerushalmi
Los Angeles, CA
“Scheduled an appointment very quickly for our HVAC unit that was having trouble cooling. Were very meticulous and clean. Helped idenitfy the issue and did a great job explaining what needs to be done and doing it. Highly recommended...”
Google Review
SM
Sharon Meoded
Los Angeles, CA
“Lior and his team installed an AC unit in my room that doesn’t have central AC and it works amazing! They were so professional and cleaned up fully after themselves. He kept me in the loop the entire process and when he came out prior to installing showed me step by step what they would be doing! Highly recommend ! Super professional”
Google Review
PW
Patricia Williams
Los Angeles, CA
“LC Heating and Air is a reliable, affordable solution for all your central air and heating needs. I am an out of town landlord and it can be difficult to find the assistance I need. LC Heating and Air took care of my tenants issues quickly and explained all issues before making necessary repairs. I will def use them again if need be!”
Google Review
NE
Naomi Eagleson
Los Angeles, CA
“I hired LC Heating & AC to replace the drain pumps in our Mitsubishi Mini Splits and clean the condenser and was pleased with the service. Leo was responsive, thorough, and professional. I chose this company based on the glowing reviews I read online and wasn't disappointed. My husband and I look forward to using our AC this summer!”
Google Review
OI
Osher Itzhaki
Los Angeles, CA
“Amazing service!! I called LC heating and air and was fortunate enough to have scheduled them for a same day appointment . Leo arrived on time and was super friendly, polite and fixed my ax in no time . The price was fair and he explained what further steps I shouted take to keep my ac unit running for more years Thank you LC!!!”
Google Review
JS
Justin Shapiro
West Hollywood, CA
“Great experience!!’ Leo came to my house in West Hollywood at 9pm !! I had an emergency, my ac stopped working out of no where i called LC heating and air from the phone call with the office to the time the tech came the service was just amazing. Leo came and had my ac running in no time. Thank you so much !! Highly recommended”
Google Review
GH
Greg Haroutunian
Los Angeles, CA
“Sunday morning discovered AC in the unit is not working, called everywhere, no one wanted to come the same day. LC Heating came the same day, fixed the problem which apparently wasn't easy to figure out. Very professional, calm and confident, pleasant to work with. Leo was the lead guy. Great experience, highly recommend it!”
Google Review
AV
Adam Valdies
Los Angeles, CA
“Leo and his team were amazing! I am so glad we called them to handle our AC/Heating issue. The problem was not clear at first and required substantial troubleshooting but Leo was extremely communicative and very professional throughout! He figured out the problem and we cannot thank him enough! Highly recommend!”
Google Review
LO
Leeyam Ohayon
Los Angeles, CA
“I called LC Heating & Air when my heating unit stopped working. He came quickly and fixed the problem fast. The technician was very kind and experienced. He explained the problem to me and gave me maintenance tips for the future. I definitely recommend LC Heating and Air if you're in need of these services.”
Google Review
AY
ariel. yona.
Los Angeles, CA
“Amazingly service me heater broke down and I was looking for a local company in my neighborhood. I found LC heating and air I can’t express in words how pleased I was with this company the owner Leo came out was very professional friendly and fixed my heater in no time !!! Highly recommended”
Google Review
KB
kevin benoit
Los Angeles, CA
“I cannot recommend this company more. They came, assess my issue and then ordered the right parts from the company and made an amazing install and transform my AC unit into a smart controlled AC unit which no Other HVAC company was able to do, or wanted to take the time that it took to do it”
Google Review
TY
Todd Yasuda
Los Angeles, CA
“Asher (LC Heating & Air) is the best, he kept me informed throughout the whole process. Everything he told me is exactly how things were done. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to work with. If you want to work with a reliable person and company, I would highly recommend him.”
Google Review
CK
claudia kleinschmidt
Los Angeles, CA
“Our AC was broken and had been dripping for a couple days. Once we called LC heating and air they sent out Asher to fix it immediately. He checked out the AC and fixed the problem on the spot. He was super professional and informative. Highly recommend Asher and the company!”
Google Review
DF
D Fan
Los Angeles, CA
“Leo is the absolute best! Had an emergency call and he came out right away in the early evening. Showed me how my units work and what the problem was. A few minutes later, it was fixed and working again! I cannot recommend this guy more highly. Call him and you'll be happy!”
Google Review
JM
Jamie Morgan
Los Angeles, CA
“LC Heating and AC is the best! I couldn’t recommend enough. It was a 100/10 experience. Helped me get to the bottom of repairing my AC that was very complicated and messed up by someone else. They are very professional and kind on top be being super knowledgeable.”
Google Review
DA
dan amiel
Los Angeles, CA
“Great service my heater stopped working out of the blue and we just had a new born I called lc heating and air they were the only ones that answered they came out and a hour my heater was up and running I couldn’t thank them enough . Highly recommended”
Google Review
YG
Yane G.
Los Angeles, CA
“Very helpful and very respectful. I called for a repair and was answered immediately, they were great in explaining what was going wrong and how they would fix it i was glad with there work and would definitely be calling them for any future repairs.”
Google Review
LA
Leetal Adelle Cohen
Los Angeles, CA
“We reached out to Leo and had a new HVAC system installed by him and his crew. Very happy with the results! Very professional, knowledgeable and patient. The whole process was very smooth, quick and clean. System works perfectly. Highly recommend”
Google Review
AM
Agam Mashiah
Los Angeles, CA
“I called lc heating to fix my heater in my house . We decided to replace the heater throughout the whole out process the customer service was great they were very communicative, professional and were very clean . Thank you again for the great job”
Google Review
CR
Charles Raffini
Los Angeles, CA
“HVAC system was leaking in the attic. Leo took my call late at night and came immediately. He stopped the leak and came back to make sure the system was working properly. Very responsive, good work and great value. Highly recommend them.”
Google Review
YY
yoav yerushalmi
Los Angeles, CA
“Scheduled an appointment very quickly for our HVAC unit that was having trouble cooling. Were very meticulous and clean. Helped idenitfy the issue and did a great job explaining what needs to be done and doing it. Highly recommended...”
Common questions about ac compressor repair in Los Angeles
How do I know if my AC compressor has failed?
Signs of compressor failure include: the outdoor unit's fan running but no cooling, loud clicking or clunking when the system starts, the compressor humming without starting, or the circuit breaker tripping when the system activates. However, all of these symptoms can also be caused by a bad capacitor — which is a much cheaper fix. Always get a proper diagnosis before assuming compressor failure.
How much does AC compressor repair cost in Los Angeles?
Capacitor replacement (often misidentified as compressor failure) runs $150–$350. Hard start kit installation: $100–$175. Compressor replacement on a residential system: $1,200–$2,500 in parts and labor. In all compressor replacement cases, we also discuss whether full system replacement is a better value given the system age and condition.
Is it worth replacing an AC compressor?
On a system under 7–8 years old with no other significant issues, compressor replacement can be worthwhile — the remaining components have plenty of life left. On a system 10+ years old, putting a new compressor in old equipment is often a poor investment: the other components are aging, the warranty on new equipment is absent, and you're one other failure away from full replacement anyway. We'll be direct with you about which situation applies.
What is a hard start kit?
A hard start kit (also called a start capacitor or hard start assist) is a capacitor and relay assembly that provides an additional electrical boost when the compressor starts. It reduces the startup current draw, which lowers stress on the compressor motor windings and can help a struggling compressor start reliably when line voltage is low or temperatures are extreme. It's a $100–$175 investment that can meaningfully extend compressor life.
What causes AC compressor failure?
The most common causes are: capacitor failure that causes repeated hard-starting and motor winding stress over time, low refrigerant causing the compressor to overheat and lose lubrication, electrical surges or phase imbalance, and simply age on heavily used systems. In LA, the combination of extreme summer heat and heavy usage accelerates all of these failure modes.
Can a seized AC compressor be repaired?
A fully locked rotor (seized) compressor cannot be repaired — it requires replacement. The motor windings have failed or the internal mechanical components have seized. This is usually caused by prolonged operation with low refrigerant. Replacement compressors are available for most systems, but on systems 10+ years old we generally recommend evaluating full system replacement instead.
Do you replace compressors on all AC brands?
We repair and replace compressors on Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Rheem, Goodman, Daikin, Mitsubishi, and all other major residential AC brands. We source OEM and quality aftermarket compressors and carry the most common units for quick turnaround on repair calls.
Will my homeowner insurance cover a failed AC compressor?
Standard homeowner insurance policies typically don't cover AC compressor failure from normal wear and tear. Some home warranty plans (American Home Shield, etc.) do cover compressor failure — check your plan documentation. If you have a home warranty, call them first; they may require their own contractor. We work with most home warranty companies.
Verified Reviews
What customers say about ac compressor repair
Verified reviews from Los Angeles homeowners who used our ac compressor repair service.
“AC compressor failed on the hottest day of the year. LC came out quickly, gave an honest assessment — said the compressor was still under manufacturer warranty — and helped me get it covered. Saved me over $1,200.”
J
James T.
Hollywood, CA · Jun 2025
“Our AC stopped working during a heat wave and LC had a technician here within two hours. He diagnosed a bad capacitor, had the part on his truck, and fixed it on the spot. Fair price, no upsell. Will use again.”
M
Maria R.
Sherman Oaks, CA · Aug 2025
“Called on a Saturday because AC was blowing warm air. LC answered, sent someone the same afternoon. They found and fixed a refrigerant leak. Professional and reasonably priced.”