The quick rule
Multiply the age of your system by the cost of the repair. If the answer is more than about $5,000, replacement usually makes more financial sense. If it's well under, repair it.
Example: a 14-year-old AC with an $800 repair gives 14 × 800 = $11,200. That's a strong sign to replace. A 6-year-old system with a $300 repair gives $1,800. Repair it.
Things that push toward replacing
- The system is 12–15 years old or more
- It uses R-22 refrigerant, which is no longer produced and is expensive to recharge
- You've needed repairs two summers in a row
- Some rooms never get comfortable no matter what
- Your energy bills keep creeping up
Things that push toward repairing
- The system is under 10 years old
- It's still under manufacturer warranty (parts may be covered)
- It has been maintained and has worked well until now
- You plan to move soon
How we help you decide
We'll give you the repair price and, if it makes sense, a replacement option side by side. We tell you which one we'd choose in your position.