Making the right decision between repairing or replacing your home AC unit can save you potentially thousands of dollars. Replacing the system too soon may keep you from maximizing your investment. Continuing to repair an AC after it has become severely problematic, however, could cost you a lot in parts, labor, and even increased operating costs. Especially in a high-demand area like California, it is important to know when to repair or replace your AC.
Factors That Affect AC Lifespan
While most air conditioners last 10 to 15 years, several factors determine how long yours will keep running efficiently:
- Maintenance habits: Regular tune-ups and filter changes keep internal components clean and prevent wear and tear.
- Usage patterns: Systems that run constantly, such as those used in inland or desert areas, tend to wear out faster than those used sparingly near the coast.
- Installation quality: Poor installation can lead to airflow problems and early compressor failure.
- Climate: Dust, salt air, and heat extremes can accelerate corrosion and shorten your unit’s life.
- System type and brand: Higher-quality systems and properly sized units generally last longer and perform better.
When to Repair an AC Unit
Under Warranty or Relatively New
The typical parts warranty for an AC unit ranges from five to 10 years. Bear in mind that most companies require homeowners to register the warranty within 90 days of purchase, so keep all your documentation and communications.
Even if an AC unit is no longer under warranty, it may still be worth repairing. Most units under 10 years old don’t have major problems. Even units that are pushing 15 or 20 years may be worth repairing if they’re only starting to have minor issues.
Low Repair Cost
It is usually worth getting an estimate for repairing a typically low-cost issue. For example, a blower motor replacement might cost hundreds of dollars for a typical system. Control board replacements and even most refrigerant issues are often in this range, too. Thermostats often only cost a few hundred dollars to replace.
A good rule of thumb is that if the repair cost is less than half the value of a replacement unit, then repairs are likely a good idea. Alternatively, you might want to multiply the unit’s age by the projected repair cost. If that figure exceeds $5,000, you may want to consider replacing the AC unit.
First-Time Major Repairs
Over the lifetime of an AC unit, it will require some repairs. For example, capacitors often fail after about 8 to 10 years of regular use. Evaporator and condenser coils often fail on a 10-15-year timeline. Refrigerant lines almost never fail, unless damaged or corroded. Expansion valves have a similar tendency to last as long as the unit. Most compressors last about 15 to 20 years.
If your AC unit needs a major repair for the first time, you should strongly consider having it repaired. This is especially true of parts with long lifespans, as long as they’re undamaged.
Common Air Conditioning Repairs
Some AC problems can be resolved quickly and affordably. Common repairs include:
- Capacitor or contactor replacement: Fixes starting issues and intermittent cooling.
- Refrigerant leaks: Can be repaired, though repeated leaks may signal deeper problems.
- Clogged condensate drain line: A simple fix that prevents water damage and mold.
- Fan motor replacement: Restores airflow when your system struggles to push cool air.
- Thermostat repair or replacement: Ensures accurate temperature control and efficiency.
If repairs are minor and your system is relatively new, it’s often worth fixing. But if you’re facing frequent service calls or major component failures, replacement might be the smarter investment.
When to Replace an AC Unit
Recurring Repair Problems
Multiple repairs are often a sign that the system is experiencing a cascading failure. This is especially true if the repairs occur within a limited period, such as a couple of years. One reason you might want to be wary of repeatedly paying for repairs is that a failure in one part of an AC unit can cause failures elsewhere.
This is especially true if the system hasn’t had annual maintenance. An undiagnosed refrigerant loss, for example, can strain the compressor. However, the AC unit could operate in a declining condition for years before the compressor quits.
Multiple Simultaneous Repairs
Some AC unit problems do happen concurrently, though. Damaged coils could strain both the compressor and the blower motor. As all components strain, they may fail or approach failure simultaneously. When our technician checks the system, they may diagnose multiple issues. Even if the upfront replacement cost is relatively low, you may want to consider a replacement if a range of problems occur at once.
Rising Energy Costs
Repairing an AC unit will improve its operating efficiency. However, aging components tend to decline in efficiency compared to when the system was new. This happens even with multiple new replacement parts. If you’re seeing your household’s summer energy bills go up significantly as your AC unit ages, a replacement may be the answer.
Over 20 Years Old
In the HVAC industry, a 20-year-old AC unit is considered well past its useful life. We strongly recommend replacing any AC unit older than 20 years, even if it appears to be running fine. It isn’t uncommon to replace units after 10-15 years, either.
Bear in mind that efficiency improvements over the last two decades make most newer models significantly better than what’s likely running in your house right now. Even an older unit that’s still running fairly efficiently for its age would likely underperform compared to a new AC.
Under Capacity
You might find that the AC unit in your house doesn’t have sufficient capacity to meet your cooling needs. Perhaps a previous homeowner installed the unit and just wasn’t inclined to set the thermostat as low as you would. Running an AC unit with too low a capacity will strain its components. Likewise, an undersized system will consume more energy than one that’s sized for your home.
Lack of Features
An AC unit may not have all the features that you want. If you’d like to have a more modern unit with variable refrigerant flow, for example, then replacement is the best option. Inverter-driven compressors also help save money. Plenty of newer models also have built-in support of indoor air quality measures, such as UV-C germicidal lights and HEPA filtration. Especially if the AC is already past the 10-year mark, there is a strong argument for upgrading based on features.
Upgrade Your AC for Optimal Energy Efficiency & Long-Term Savings
Older systems typically have SEER ratings between 10 and 13, while modern models often exceed 16 to 20 SEER. The higher the SEER rating, the less energy your system uses to cool your home, reducing your electric bill and your carbon footprint.
Upgrading to a high-efficiency system can also make you eligible for state or federal rebates and tax credits, helping offset upfront costs. In addition, new units use eco-friendly refrigerants and produce fewer emissions, aligning with California’s sustainability goals.
Consider Replacement for Comfort, Air Quality & Smart Features
Today’s air conditioners do far more than cool. Modern systems are quieter, smarter, and better for your health.
Features like smart thermostats, zoning capabilities, and variable-speed fans let you fine-tune comfort and reduce wasted energy. Improved filtration and humidity control help combat allergies and maintain balanced indoor air quality, ideal for households in California’s dry inland climates or humid coastal regions.
Borderline Cases
Recent Investment in Repairs
It can be tricky deciding to replace an AC unit that has just had recent repair work. A good rule of thumb is not to chase bad money with good money. If the repairs are fairly low-cost, don’t worry about it. However, a replacement might be better if you’re looking at consecutive $5,000 bills.
Electrical Issues
The challenge with any electrical issues is determining if the AC unit is really the culprit. For example, an AC might throw a breaker regularly during high demand. However, the breaker or the panel could be the issue. You should ask one of our technicians to check the electrical system in the AC unit before you determine whether to repair or replace it.
Eight to 12 Years of Age
The gray area for replacing an AC unit is between eight and 12 years old. If it’s still under warranty, take the win. Otherwise, you need to assess whether repairs are financially wise. A major component failure at this point, such as a compressor, could be worrisome. Conversely, replacing a fan motor is par for the course. Our technicians can help you determine whether repairs are justified, given the unit’s age.
Repair vs. Replacement Cost Comparison
| Service Type | Average Cost |
| Minor repairs | $150–$500 |
| Major repairs | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Full replacement | $5,000–$10,000 |
If your system requires multiple major repairs over two summers, you could easily exceed the cost of a new unit. Many homeowners choose replacement to save on long-term repair bills, energy use, and stress. Financing options and seasonal promotions can make upgrading even more affordable.
The 50% Rule: A Simple Decision Formula
A general guideline is the 50% rule: If the repair cost exceeds half the price of a new unit, replacement is usually the better option.
Example: If a new system costs $4,000 and your repair estimate is $2,500, it’s time to replace.
Conversely, a $300 repair on a relatively new system is worth fixing.
When evaluating your options, remember to factor in energy savings from a higher-efficiency model.
How Maintenance Extends Your AC’s Life
Regular maintenance is the best way to delay replacement and avoid costly breakdowns. Schedule annual tune-ups before peak cooling season to check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and replace filters. Preventive maintenance improves efficiency and keeps your warranty valid, as many manufacturers require proof of regular service for coverage.
A well-maintained AC doesn’t just last longer; it runs better, costs less to operate, and keeps your California home cool all summer long.
Get Reliable Service
General Air Conditioning & Plumbing is a fully licensed and insured business that serves Coachella Valley, CA, and the surrounding areas. We have been helping customers with HVAC needs since 1984. You can ask us to work on a range of installation, AC repair, upgrade, replacement, and maintenance jobs. Folks love us because we are a locally-based operation that provides fast service. Our vehicles serve as warehouses on wheels, too.
If you’re trying to determine whether to repair or replace the AC unit in your Coachella Valley home, contact General Air Conditioning & Plumbing today.
