When your air conditioner breaks down or is not cooling your home the way it should, it can be difficult to know whether to repair it or replace it altogether. The right decision depends on a few key factors like the unit’s age, the severity of the issue, the cost of repairs, and energy efficiency. To help you make the smartest choice for your home and budget, LV Heating & Cooling will share a breakdown of when it makes sense to repair your air conditioner and when it’s better to replace it.
How Old is Your Air Conditioner?
If your unit is over 10 to 15 years old, it’s often more cost-effective to replace it especially if it’s needed frequent repairs. Newer air conditioners are much more efficient and can save you money on energy bills in the long run. Plus, refrigerants like R-22 are being phased out, making those systems more expensive and difficult to maintain. You should consider replacing your air conditioner if:
• Your unit is 12+ years old
• It uses outdated refrigerants
• It’s struggling to keep up with demand even after repairs
Consider the Cost of AC Repairs
If your repair bill is approaching or exceeding 50% of the cost of a new unit, it is probably time for a replacement. For example, if your repair is going to cost $1,500 and a new unit costs $3,000 to $4,000, replacement makes more long-term sense especially when considering energy savings and warranty coverage. Use the $5,000 Rule, multiply the age of the unit by the cost of the repair. If the number is over $5,000, it’s better to replace.
Frequency of AC Repairs
Has your air conditioner become a regular guest on your monthly to-do list? Repeated breakdowns are a major red flag. Not only are frequent repairs inconvenient, but they can quickly become more expensive than a new system.
• Repair if: This is your first repair and the unit is under 10 years old.
• Replace if: You’ve made multiple service calls in the last 1 to 2 years.
Energy Efficiency Concerns
Older air conditioner units often have a lower SEER rating. Today’s systems must have a minimum SEER rating of 14 or higher, but older units might only offer 8 to 10. Upgrading to a more efficient system can:
• Lower your monthly utility bills
• Improve home comfort
• Reduce your carbon footprint
Replace if your utility bills have been steadily rising and your system has a SEER under 13.
Home Comfort Problems
Does your home stay humid and stuffy even when the air conditioner is on? Are some rooms too hot or too cold? These may indicate your unit is too small, too large, or simply worn out.
• Repair if: Issues are minor and can be fixed with a tune-up.
• Replace if: Comfort problems persist even after repairs or adjustments.
Refrigerant Leaks or Obsolete Parts
A refrigerant leak, especially in systems that use R-22, can be expensive to fix and may not be worth it. R-22 is no longer produced, making recharges very costly.
Central AC Inspections, Tune Ups, Repair, Replacement & More in Summerlin, North LV, Henderson, Enterprise, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor & Greater Las Vegas, NV
Every home is different, and so is every air conditioner system. If you are unsure whether to repair or replace your unit, contact LV Heating & Cooling for a professional inspection and repairs today.
