When your AC quits during a heat wave, the first question is always the same: fix it or replace it? A few honest factors make the decision clearer.
The quick rule of thumb
- Age. Most central AC systems last 12–15 years. Past that, replacement is often the smarter investment.
- The repair cost. If a single repair approaches half the cost of a new system, replacement usually wins.
- Efficiency. Newer high-SEER systems can noticeably lower summer cooling bills.
- Refrigerant. Older units using phased-out refrigerant get more expensive to service every year.
There’s no one-size answer. A straightforward diagnostic — and a written estimate — should give you the numbers to decide with confidence.