Contactor — 1-Pole | 204504
About this product
Contactor — 1-Pole — manufacturer part number 204504.
What this part does
The contactor is the heavy-duty relay that switches line voltage to your compressor and condenser fan when the thermostat calls for cooling. Its contacts pit and burn over time, and ants and debris get inside, so it either sticks closed or stops pulling in.
Replace this part if
- Outdoor unit will not start though the thermostat calls for cooling
- Loud chattering or buzzing from the outdoor unit
- Contacts look pitted, blackened, or welded together
- Outdoor unit runs constantly and will not shut off
- Insects or debris found inside the contactor housing
Specifications
| Poles | 1-Pole |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | 204504 |
| Condition | New |
| Sold By | Furnace Direct (Hamlin Mechanical LLC, MN Lic. #128688) |
Install difficulty
Moderate — about 30 minutes. Tools: Nut driver, needle-nose pliers, phone camera for wiring. Power off at the breaker: yes. Gas shutoff required: no.
Safety warning: This part carries line voltage. Shut the power off at both the breaker and the outdoor disconnect, and photograph the wiring before you remove anything.
Typical service life is 5-10 years. Most HVAC companies charge $200-350 to replace this part, including the service call.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my contactor is bad?
Replace it if you see any of these: outdoor unit will not start though the thermostat calls for cooling; loud chattering or buzzing from the outdoor unit; contacts look pitted, blackened, or welded together.
Can I replace a contactor myself?
Yes. This is a moderate repair that takes about 30 minutes with nut driver, needle-nose pliers, phone camera for wiring. Always shut the power off at the breaker first. This part carries line voltage. Shut the power off at both the breaker and the outdoor disconnect, and photograph the wiring before you remove anything.
How long does a contactor last?
Typically 5-10 years in normal residential use. Heavy cycling, poor airflow, and dirty filters all shorten that.
How much does a contractor charge to replace a contactor?
Most HVAC companies charge $200-350 for this repair, including the service call. The part itself is $25.95.
How fast does this ship?
Orders placed by 2 PM CT typically ship the same business day, with delivery in 1-5 business days.
What if it does not fit?
Return it within 90 days. If you are unsure before ordering, call (888) 762-1334 — we are licensed HVAC contractors and can confirm the right part for your model.
Sold by licensed HVAC contractors. Furnace Direct is Hamlin Mechanical LLC, Minnesota licence #128688. If this part does not fix the problem, call (888) 762-1334 and we will help you work out what will.
Specifications
| Brand | Furnace Direct |
| Serial Number | 204504 |
| Type | HVAC Replacement Part |
| Warranty | 10-Year Manufacturer (Parts) |
| Shipping | Free pallet freight |
What customers are saying
Saved $2,400 vs local contractor
Got quoted $9,200 from a local HVAC contractor for a furnace replacement. Found Furnace Direct and got the exact same Goodman unit for under $5k delivered. My installer couldn't believe the price and installed it in one day. Runs perfectly.
Fast shipping, exactly as described
Ordered on a Tuesday, pallet arrived Friday. Unit was packed well, no damage, all factory sealed. Andrew answered my sizing question over the phone and got me the right model. Couldn't be happier with the purchase.
Installer said same one he'd buy at supply house
My HVAC guy said he pays basically the same price at his wholesale supply house. The markup contractors add is insane. Furnace Direct cut the middleman out entirely. Will recommend to everyone I know.
Heating my 2,200 sq ft home perfectly
Installed my 96% AFUE furnace a couple months ago. Heats my 2,200 sq ft home perfectly, and my gas bill dropped noticeably compared to the old unit. Great product, great price, great experience from start to finish.
Saved enough to pay for the install
Math was simple: 3 contractor quotes all over $8k. Furnace Direct plus local installer was under $5,500 total. Saved enough to basically pay for the install myself. Quality is identical to what contractors charge a fortune for.
No-pressure, honest pricing
Called a few HVAC companies first — every single one wanted to schedule an "in-home consultation" before giving me a price. Furnace Direct just showed me the price. Bought online, shipped next day, done. This is how it should work.
Questions About This System?
Send a few photos of your current setup and we'll get you a real quote — and let us know if you need installation or just want the unit shipped same-day.
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