"Eric" wrote in message
g.com...
Just wondering if there's a rule-of-thumb on replacing vs.
repairing central A/C units?

My home in MA is 8 years old, and has a (rather cheesy looking)
"Concord" system installed when it was built. Last night it
stopped cooling - the inside & outside fans run, but no compressor
sound, warm air, and the lights dim every 30 seconds or so like
the thermal overload is cycling. I shut it down last night and
tried again in the AM with same symptoms.

So I guess the real question is, if it comes down to replacing
outside unit + inside coil vs. just replacing the compressor (do
people even do this any more?), what's the best choice? I assume
the newer units are more efficient, but how long would it take to
recoup an additional $1000 or $1500 cost?

Eric

No doubt you have checked for a reset button on the unit. If not,
do so.
It appears you are jumping to conclusions without sufficient
information to make a decision. I'd suggest you get some
professional advice and then make a decision.
Bob-tx