Central Air condenser sounds like it's failing

Who would you call to diagnose and likely replace an 18-year-old condenser? The other unit installed at the same time still seems fine, but this one was making a lot of noise and was getting very hot, so we turned it off.

Can you call the company that installed the unit?  That's who I call in to inspect/repair my aged unit prior to the beginning of the cooling season.  Send me a PM if you want the contact information for the company I use. 

Thanks, joan. We used Air Group to install, but haven't used them for servicing all these yours. We initially used another guy who broke away from them and started his own business, and then had Right One Plumbing service it. We have had a rash of big bills all at once, so I'm just trying to stanch the flow and find the most expeditious yet reasonable option. In any case, I'll PM you.

You are welcome.  I replied to your PM.  I don't know if this will be a less costly option for you but it wouldn't hurt to call for an estimate.

Thanks, joan. Plungy will be on the job a little later today.

I have a retired friend that does this service.  He is quite good.  If it doesn't work out, let me know  Jasper and I will ask if he can come look at it.  He is extremely reasonable and not in the business to rip people off.

Thanks, ellen. I'm happy to report that Jason from plungy's crew came and knew right away that it was a blown capacitor, and it was a simple and relatively inexpensive fix. One more random what-else-can-fail problem solved.