« Baker Brothers Blog

At some point, every homeowner faces the decision: should I repair my AC again, or is it finally time to replace it? It’s not always an easy call—especially when you're trying to balance budget, comfort, and the scorching summer heat.

In this post, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when deciding between air conditioner repair vs. replacement, including system age, repair frequency, efficiency, and total cost of ownership.

🔧 1. How Old Is Your Air Conditioner?

Age is one of the most important indicators of whether repair or replacement makes more sense.

• Most AC units last 10–15 years with proper maintenance.

• If your system is older than that and experiencing issues, replacement is usually the smarter choice.

• Newer models offer significantly improved energy efficiency, which can save you money in the long run.

Tip: If your AC is over 12 years old and you're facing an expensive repair, replacement may be the better long-term investment.

💸 2. How Much Are You Spending on Repairs?

It’s normal for AC units to need the occasional fix. But if repair bills are stacking up, it may be time to stop patching and start fresh.

Use the “$5,000 Rule”:

Multiply the cost of the repair by the age of your unit.
If the number is more than $5,000, replacement is recommended.

Example:
A $600 repair on a 10-year-old unit = 600 x 10 = $6,000 → Consider replacing it.

Frequent repairs are a sign that your AC is nearing the end of its lifespan and you’re paying more to keep it alive than it's worth.

⚡ 3. Is Your AC Energy Efficient?

Old AC units often have a low SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), meaning they use more energy to produce the same cooling effect.

• Older units may have a SEER of 8 to 10

• Today’s standard models must have a SEER of 14 or higher (in many regions)

• High-efficiency units offer SEER 20+, which can cut your cooling bill significantly

Bonus: Upgrading to an energy-efficient model may make you eligible for federal tax credits or local utility rebates.

🧊 4. Is Your Home Comfortable?

If your home never quite reaches the temperature on the thermostat—or if you notice hot and cold spots throughout the house—it could be a sign your system is:

• Undersized for your home

• Struggling due to age or wear

• Losing performance due to internal problems

Even if the AC still runs, inconsistent cooling is a sign that performance is slipping. Newer systems use advanced features like variable-speed fans and zoning systems to cool more evenly and efficiently.

🧰 5. Does Your System Use R-22 (Freon)?

If your AC was installed before 2010, it may still use R-22 refrigerant (Freon), which has been phased out due to environmental concerns.

• R-22 is no longer produced in the U.S.

• Recharging systems with R-22 is extremely expensive and harder to find

• If your unit develops a refrigerant leak, repair becomes much more costly

Recommendation: If your unit uses R-22, upgrading to a newer system with R-410A or newer refrigerants is highly advisable.

📉 6. Are Your Energy Bills Creeping Up?

A spike in your utility bill—especially during the summer—can indicate that your air conditioner is losing efficiency. Over time, parts wear down, coils get dirty, and motors weaken.

Compare your recent bills to the same period last year. If you’re seeing consistent increases, and your usage habits haven’t changed, your AC might be the culprit.

🔁 7. Are You Planning to Stay in Your Home Long-Term?

If you plan to sell your home soon, you might consider repairing the AC to keep it functional in the short term.

However, if you’re planning to stay for 3+ years, a new energy-efficient AC can:

• Increase your home’s resale value

• Lower your monthly energy bills

• Provide better, more reliable comfort for your family

Buyers love seeing a new HVAC system—it’s one less worry and expense for them.

🧯 8. Are You Dealing with Constant Breakdowns?

If your AC is always on the fritz and you’re constantly calling for service, it’s time to step back and evaluate.

Common red flags that your AC is on its last legs:

• Compressor failure

• Motor issues

• Circuit board malfunctions

• Frozen coils

• Frequent refrigerant leaks

Multiple breakdowns per season are a clear sign that your system is unreliable and nearing the end of its lifespan.

✅ Key Takeaways: Repair vs. Replace Checklist

QuestionIf YES...Is your AC over 12 years old?Consider replacingAre repairs adding up to over $1,000 per year?ReplaceDoes it use R-22 refrigerant?ReplaceAre your energy bills rising?Replace or repair and reassessIs your comfort affected (hot spots, humidity)?ReplaceDo you plan to stay in your home?Replace for ROI

🔧 When to Repair Instead

There are times when repairing your AC makes sense, especially if:

• The unit is less than 8 years old

• It has had no major issues before

• The repair is relatively minor (e.g., capacitor, contactor, thermostat)

• You’ve kept up with regular maintenance

📞 Need Help Deciding? We’re Here for You

Still unsure whether to repair or replace your air conditioner? Our certified HVAC technicians can inspect your system, offer honest recommendations, and help you make the most cost-effective decision.

Contact us today for a diagnostic visit or a free estimate on AC replacement.

Contact us or give us a call at 214-892-2225 to schedule your consultation with our licensed experts, who have been serving the DFW community for over 75 years.