Summer has a way of sneaking up on homeowners. One minute, you're enjoying a breezy spring day, and the next, you're scrambling to turn on your air conditioner—only to find it's not keeping up. When your system starts struggling or stops working altogether, you're faced with a familiar question: Should you call for AC repair, or is it time to replace the unit entirely?
The decision isn’t always clear-cut. It depends on a mix of factors like age, performance, cost, and energy efficiency. Making the right call can save you hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars in both the short and long term.
Before summer temperatures hit their peak, here’s what you need to know about weighing your options and choosing the best path forward.
Age is often the most telling factor when it comes to your air conditioning system. The average central AC unit lasts about 10–15 years. If your system is approaching or beyond that range, replacement may be a smarter investment than ongoing repairs.
Older systems not only lose efficiency but often use outdated refrigerants like R-22, which are more expensive to replace and no longer supported in new equipment. Even if repairs are technically possible, sourcing parts for aging units can be difficult or costly.
If your AC is under 10 years old and has been regularly maintained, a repair may be all that’s needed. But when the system is well into its second decade, you're likely to face diminishing returns on every dollar spent to keep it going.
A one-time repair? Reasonable. But frequent breakdowns in a short period? That’s a red flag.
Track how often you've needed AC repair in the past two years and how much you've spent. If the system seems to be limping from one issue to the next, replacement may be more economical.
A useful rule of thumb is the “$5,000 rule”: Multiply the age of the system by the cost of the repair. If the total exceeds $5,000, it’s usually time to consider a replacement. For example, if your 12-year-old unit needs a $500 repair, 12 x 500 = $6,000—suggesting replacement might be the better choice.
Not all costs are upfront. An aging air conditioner may still run, but it could be quietly inflating your energy bills every month. Compare current performance to your utility costs from past summers. If there's been a noticeable jump in usage without a change in your cooling habits, your AC may be using more energy than it should.
Modern systems, particularly those with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, are designed to cool your home using far less electricity. Replacing an outdated system with a newer, more efficient model can reduce your monthly energy bill and lessen the strain on your electrical system during high-demand months.
For environmentally conscious homeowners, switching to a more efficient unit is also a way to reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort.
Is your current AC doing the job? Uneven cooling, persistent humidity, or stale indoor air are all signs your system might be falling short. A well-functioning air conditioner should keep every room at a comfortable, consistent temperature and help filter out dust, allergens, and excess moisture.
While some comfort issues can be addressed with targeted AC repair or ductwork updates, others may stem from a system that’s simply too small, outdated, or underpowered for your home’s needs.
Before replacing, consider whether your current setup was ever properly sized. If your unit has struggled from the beginning, upgrading to a right-sized system may resolve years of discomfort.
Today’s HVAC systems offer features that weren’t available even a decade ago—smart thermostats, zoning capabilities, variable-speed compressors, and quieter operation. If your current system lacks these technologies, you're missing out on ways to improve control, save money, and reduce maintenance demands.
Upgrading may also bring you in line with newer building codes or allow you to take advantage of rebates or tax incentives for high-efficiency systems—something a basic AC repair won’t do.
For homeowners planning to stay in their homes for several more years, investing in a newer system often pays off in the form of peace of mind and daily convenience.
Don’t wait for a complete breakdown in the middle of a heatwave. Planning your decision ahead of peak cooling season gives you more control, better scheduling options, and sometimes even better pricing.
Contractors like Nardco Heating & Air Conditioning often advise homeowners to assess their AC system in the spring—before summer puts stress on aging equipment and makes emergency service harder to schedule.
Getting ahead of the curve also gives you time to explore options, compare energy savings, and choose a replacement system thoughtfully rather than under pressure.
If you’re running a system that still uses R-22 refrigerant, be aware that this material has been phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties. It’s now both rare and expensive, and systems that rely on it are no longer considered environmentally viable.
Replacing a system that uses R-22 isn’t just about convenience—it’s about compliance and responsibility. Newer systems use safer, more efficient refrigerants and are built to meet stricter environmental standards.
That said, replacement isn’t always necessary. A well-maintained unit with a minor issue—like a faulty capacitor, clogged drain line, or thermostat glitch—can be repaired quickly and affordably. If your system is relatively new, still under warranty, or hasn’t had many prior issues, an AC repair is often the right move.
Just make sure you're working with a qualified HVAC contractor who provides a clear diagnosis and helps you compare your options. A trustworthy technician won't pressure you but will help you make an informed decision.
Whether you repair or replace your AC system, the goal is the same: dependable, efficient cooling when you need it most. The right choice depends on the condition of your current system, your budget, and your long-term plans for the home.
If you're unsure, a professional assessment is the best place to start. HVAC experts like those at Nardco Heating & Air Conditioning can help you evaluate your system’s performance and provide a balanced recommendation based on real data—not guesswork.
Making the right call before summer hits means one less thing to worry about when the heat is on.
