Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner?

The Decision

There is no single age or repair price that answers the question

The repair-versus-replacement decision should consider the condition of the entire cooling system, not only the failed component. Equipment age matters, but so do repair history, refrigerant type, indoor equipment condition, airflow, comfort and the expected cost of keeping the system operating.

A relatively inexpensive repair on an otherwise sound system may be reasonable. A major repair on aging equipment with other known problems may justify evaluating replacement.

The goal is to compare the likely value of the repair with the cost and benefits of a properly selected replacement system.

Repair May Make Sense

Conditions that can favor continued repair

Minor isolated failure

A straightforward component failure may not justify replacing otherwise serviceable equipment.

Good overall condition

Clean coils, sound compressor operation, acceptable airflow and limited repair history support continued use.

Reasonable repair economics

The expected repair cost and remaining service value may compare favorably with immediate replacement.

Replacement Deserves Consideration

Conditions that change the economics

Major component failure

Compressor or coil repairs can represent a significant investment in an older system.

Repeated repairs

Multiple failures over a short period may indicate declining overall reliability.

Obsolete or costly refrigerant situation

Refrigerant availability, system type and repair requirements can affect the practicality of continued repair.

Poor comfort or humidity control

Existing sizing, airflow or distribution problems may remain even after repairing the failed part.

Mismatched equipment

Indoor and outdoor components should be evaluated as a system when major work is required.

High operating cost

Older equipment may be substantially less efficient, although actual savings depend on use and installation conditions.

Before Replacing

Do not simply copy the old condenser size

Confirm capacity

Replacement sizing should reflect the home's cooling load and actual installation conditions.

Evaluate airflow

The blower, return system and supply ductwork need to support the selected equipment.

Review the complete scope

Indoor coil, refrigerant piping, drainage, electrical work, controls and other project requirements should be addressed in the proposal.

Continue Learning

Use system knowledge to make better HVAC decisions

These guides are intended to help homeowners understand equipment and system concepts. Actual repair, sizing and installation decisions should be based on the conditions in the home and the equipment being evaluated.

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