Ask the HVAC Expert: Should I Repair or Replace My AC?

In our Ask the HVAC Expert series, HVAC.com answers real homeowner questions about heating, cooling, and everything in between.

Nothing ruins a summer day quite like an air conditioner that suddenly stops cooling your home. And when that happens, one of the first questions that pops into your head is: Should I repair it, or replace it?

We brought in Dave, one of our trusted HVAC experts at HVAC.com, to walk us through how to make this important decision.

Start With Age: How Old Is Your AC?

If your air conditioner is more than 10-15 years old, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan, especially if it’s had frequent issues.

“Age isn’t everything, but it’s a big factor,” says Dave. “If your system is over 12 years old and you’re facing a major repair, it’s usually smarter to start thinking about replacement.”

Newer AC units are also significantly more energy efficient, which can help lower your monthly energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Consider the Cost of Repairs

When determining whether to repair or replace your AC, the age of the unit and the cost of the repair should guide your decision.

• Under 10 years old: Repairs are usually the best route, especially if the part is still under a manufacturer’s warranty, which can considerably reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
• 10-15 years old, with repairs under $3,000: If the fix is a one-time issue like a blower motor or evaporator coil, repairing may still make financial sense.
• 10+ years old, with repairs over $3,000: In this case, the cost of repair may outweigh the benefits, and replacement is typically the smarter investment.
• Over 15 years old: At this point, systems are more prone to frequent breakdowns. Installing a new, more efficient unit can offer better long-term value and peace of mind.

“Think of it like a car,” says Dave. “If it’s older and keeps needing costly repairs, at some point, it makes more sense to trade it in and start fresh.”

How Well Is It Cooling?

Take stock of your home’s comfort level. Are certain rooms always warmer? Is it taking forever to cool the house down?

“If your AC runs nonstop and still can’t cool the house properly, it might be undersized, on its last legs, or both,” says Dave. “A new system that’s properly sized and installed can make a huge difference in comfort – and energy savings.”

Frequent cycling, loud noises, or excess humidity in your home can also be signs that the system isn’t operating the way it should.

Check the Efficiency Rating

Older systems often have a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 10 or lower which is highly inefficient. Today’s minimum SEER rating for new units is 14-15 (depending on the region you live in), and high-efficiency models go up to 18 or more. Even upgrading to a unit with a minimum SEER rating can significantly reduce energy costs.

“That old system may still technically work,” Dave notes, “but if it’s guzzling energy, you’re paying more every month than you need to. In those cases, replacement pays off faster than most people think.”

Bottom Line: Let Comfort and Cost Guide You

No one wants to spend money on a new AC before they have to, but sometimes, continuing to patch up an old system costs more in the long run.

“A lot of homeowners just want to know, ‘Is this thing worth saving?’” says Dave. “We always say: let’s look at the facts – age, cost, performance – and make the smartest choice from there.”

If you’re on the fence, reach out to the trusted professionals at HVAC.com. Our experts can help you weigh the pros and cons and explore financial options if a new system is needed.