Repair or Replace? A Simple Decision Guide for Aging AC Units
When your AC starts acting up, the big question is always the same: fix it again, or replace it?
Homeowners often wait until the system fully dies to make the call. But deciding earlier usually saves money and stress. Here is a simple way to judge what makes sense for your home.
Step 1: How old is your AC?
Age matters because every system has a predictable life cycle.
- Under 8 years old: repairs usually make sense
- 8 to 12 years old: depends on repair history and efficiency
- 12 to 15+ years old: replacement becomes more cost-effective
If your unit is in that older range, even small repairs can be a sign the system is nearing the end.
Step 2: How often are you repairing it?
One repair every few years is normal. But when it becomes frequent, it is a warning sign.
- If you have had multiple repairs in one season, replacement may be smarter.
- If the same problem keeps coming back, other components are wearing out too.
Step 3: How big is the repair?
Not all repairs are equal.
Repairs that usually make sense:
- Capacitor or contactor replacement
- Drain line cleaning
- Minor electrical fixes
- Fan motor replacement on newer systems
Repairs that often point toward replacement:
- Compressor failure
- Large refrigerant leak
- Coil replacement on an old system
- Repeated refrigerant refills
When major components go on older units, costs jump fast.
Step 4: What are your energy bills doing?
Your monthly bills are a quiet sign of system health.
If cooling bills keep rising even though your habits did not change, your system is losing efficiency. Newer systems are far more efficient, especially in humid Missouri summers.
Step 5: What refrigerant does your system use?
Older systems may use refrigerants that are harder to source and more expensive.
If an older refrigerant system has a leak, repairing it can cost much more than homeowners expect. In many cases, a leak on an older unit is a good time to move toward replacement.
A quick rule of thumb
If the repair cost is close to 30 to 40 percent of what a new system would cost, replacement usually wins over the next few years.
Still not sure?
That is normal. A professional inspection gives you real numbers and a clear path. We can look at your system, explain what we see, and help you decide without pressure. If replacement makes sense, we will walk you through options that fit your home and budget.
