AC condenser fan motor replacement cost
Replacing the fan motor in your outdoor AC unit costs $200 to $700 out of warranty, about $450 on average. Under warranty, labor is $100 to $300. The motor itself is $100 to $400, or up to $700 for premium ECM motors.
Quick answer
$200 – $700parts and labor
Most fan motor replacements cost $200 to $700. Under warranty it's about $100 to $300; branded ECM motors and after-hours service reach $1,600.
Cost by brand
| Brand | Motor price | Total replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Generic / universal | $70 – $300 | $170 – $600 |
| Goodman / Amana | $70 – $350 | $170 – $650 |
| Coleman / York | $120 – $300 | $220 – $600 |
| Rheem / Ruud | $120 – $500 | $220 – $800 |
| Carrier / Bryant / Payne / Heil | $90 – $700 | $190 – $1,000 |
| Lennox | $100 – $700 | $200 – $1,000 |
| Trane / American Standard | $130 – $700 | $230 – $1,000 |
Signs the fan motor is failing
- The outdoor fan doesn't spin while the compressor hums
- The fan spins slowly or stops and starts
- Grinding, squealing or rattling from the outdoor unit
- The unit trips its breaker or overheats
Often the real culprit is the capacitor ($250 to $400), so test it first.
Fan motor vs. blower motor
The condenser fan motor is outside and moves air across the condenser coil. The blower motor is inside the furnace or air handler and pushes air through your ducts; it costs more to replace, see Blower motor replacement cost.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace an AC fan motor?
About $200 to $700 out of warranty, or $100 to $300 under warranty.
Can I run my AC with a bad fan motor?
No. Without the fan, the compressor overheats and can be damaged. Turn the AC off until it's repaired.
How long do condenser fan motors last?
Typically 10 to 20 years.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.