ServiCoverThe "$5,000 Rule"
A common rule of thumb: multiply the unit's age by the repair cost. If the result is over $5,000, lean toward replacement. A 12-year-old unit needing a $500 repair scores $6,000 — replace. A 6-year-old unit needing the same repair scores $3,000 — repair.
| Unit Age | Repair Cost | Age × Cost | Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 years | $600 | $3,000 | Repair |
| 10 years | $450 | $4,500 | Repair, start budgeting |
| 13 years | $800 | $10,400 | Replace |
| 16 years | $300 | $4,800 | Borderline — consider efficiency gains |
Common AC Repairs and Typical Costs
- Capacitor or contactor — among the most common and least expensive fixes
- Refrigerant leak repair and recharge — refrigerant runs around $125 or more depending on type and amount
- Fan motor replacement — moderate cost; common on aging units
- Compressor replacement — the most expensive repair; on an older unit, often a signal to replace entirely
Warning Signs Your AC Is Failing
- Rising energy bills without a change in usage
- Rooms that won't cool evenly, or the system runs constantly
- Frequent repairs within one or two seasons
- Ice on the refrigerant lines or outdoor unit
- Grinding, squealing or banging from the condenser
The R-22 Factor
Systems made before 2010 often use R-22 refrigerant, which is no longer produced in the US. Recharging them relies on reclaimed supply and can be very expensive, which usually tips the decision toward replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
It can seem cheaper, but mismatched indoor and outdoor components can reduce efficiency and may affect warranties. Most contractors recommend replacing both when the system is older.
A modern unit meeting current SEER2 minimums is considerably more efficient than a 15-year-old system, and higher-tier variable-speed units improve on that further.