Start with the age
Central air conditioners commonly last around 10 to 15 years, depending on climate, maintenance and how hard they run. The data plate on the outdoor unit usually shows the manufacture date, and your HVAC tech can read it if it's coded.
Weigh the repair against a new system
A common rule of thumb: if a repair costs more than half the price of a new system, replacement usually makes more sense. Another quick test multiplies the system's age by the repair cost. If the result is above about $5,000, it's worth getting a replacement quote.
- Small repairs like a capacitor, contactor or drain line are usually worth fixing.
- Big repairs like a compressor or evaporator coil on an older system often aren't.
- Refrigerant leaks on older systems can be costly to chase and recharge.
Look at the pattern, not just this repair
One repair on a healthy system is normal. Several service calls in two summers, rising energy bills or rooms that never cool evenly are signs the system is wearing out.
Get two quotes the same day
Ask the technician for a written repair quote and a replacement quote, including the size, efficiency rating, warranty and what's included, like the thermostat, permits and haul-away. Compare at least two companies before replacing a whole system.