Let’s not waste time. You’ve got an old AC unit, and it’s giving you problems. Now you’re asking yourself:
“Should I repair this thing one more time, or just rip it out and replace it?”
We get this question every week. We’re Air Plus, based right here in Stuart, Florida. We’ve been keeping homes cool for over 20 years. And we’ll tell you what we tell every customer who asks that question:
It depends. But we’re gonna help you figure it out, fast.
First, Here’s the Truth
Air conditioners don’t last forever. If your unit is 10-15 years old, it’s already near the end of its life. That’s not marketing talk; it’s reality. Florida heat works your AC hard all year long. So, your system breaks down faster than in cooler states. That’s just how it is.
Now, if your AC is just a few years old and something breaks, fix it. No brainer. But if your unit’s been around for over a decade, and now you’re dealing with weird noises, weak airflow, or rising power bills, that’s a red flag.
Here’s How We Break It Down
When customers call us at Air Plus with this question, we look at four things:
- Age of the Unit
- Cost of the Repair
- How Often It Breaks
- Energy Bills
Let’s go through them.
1. How Old Is Your AC?
If your AC is over 10 years old, you’re on borrowed time. Even if it’s still running today, parts wear down. Compressors get tired. The refrigerant may be outdated. And once the warranty is gone, every repair comes out of your pocket.
Plus, newer systems are way more efficient. We’re talking 30% to 50% less electricity use in some cases. That can mean hundreds in savings every year.
So, if your unit is past 10 and it’s breaking down a lot, it’s probably smarter to replace it than keep dumping money into it.
2. How Much Will the Repair Cost?
Here’s our rule of thumb at Air Plus:
If the repair costs more than $1,000 and the unit is over 10 years old, replace it. Don’t overthink it.
Let’s say you’ve got a 13-year-old AC, and it needs a new compressor. That job can cost $1,200–$1,800. That’s nearly half the cost of a new system. It’s like putting a new engine in a rusty car. You’re still stuck with an old system that’s going to keep giving you problems.
On the other hand, if your system is less than 8 years old and the repair is minor (like a capacitor or fan motor), go ahead and fix it. Just make sure the tech isn’t just putting a Band-Aid on a bigger issue.
3. Is This the First Problem or the Fifth?
One repair? Not a big deal.
Three repairs in the last year? Now we’re talking about a money pit.
If your AC keeps breaking, it’s telling you something. It’s tired. The parts are worn. And every time it goes down, you’re spending more and more just to get back to square one.
That’s not cooling. That’s gambling.
When we see customers with repeat issues, we sit them down and show them the numbers. A new system might cost more upfront, but it stops bleeding cash every few months. And they get peace of mind. That’s worth something.
4. What’s Happening to Your Power Bill?
Here in Stuart, we get some brutal summers. And when your AC isn’t running right, your power bill starts climbing. If your bill is going up and your home isn’t getting cooler, that’s a problem.
New AC units have better SEER ratings (that means energy efficiency). Old units might have a SEER rating of 10 or 12. New ones? They’re hitting 15, 16, even 20+.
Translation: more cooling, less electricity.
If your unit’s making your wallet sweat harder than your house, it might be time to cut your losses.
The 50% Rule (Quick Math)
Not sure which way to go? Use the 50% Rule.
If the cost to repair your AC is more than 50% of the cost to replace it, go with replacement.
Example: New AC system = $6,000
Repair = $3,200
Too much. Replace it.
If repair = $300? Fix it and move on.
Simple math. No drama.
Bonus: What Are Your Plans?
Are you planning to sell your home soon? A new AC can boost your home’s value and help it sell faster.
Are you staying put for the next 10 years? A new system pays for itself in terms of energy savings and reliability.
Are you tight on cash right now? We get it. That’s why we offer financing options. You don’t have to shell out six grand all at once.
Bottom line: your plans matter. Let us know what they are, and we’ll help you make the right move.
What We Tell Our Own Families
At Air Plus, we treat every customer like they’re family. That’s not a slogan. That’s how we do business.
If your AC can be fixed for a fair price and still has life left in it, we’ll fix it.
But if we see you pouring money into a system that’s going to keep breaking, we’ll tell you straight: Replace it.
You deserve to be comfortable. You deserve cool air, lower bills, and fewer headaches.
Final Word
So, repair or replace?
If your unit is:
- Under 10 years old,
- Hasn’t broken down more than once or twice,
- And isn’t wrecking your electric bill; fix it.
If it’s:
- Over 10 years old,
- Breaking down often,
- Costs you hundreds to repair,
- Or causing high power bills, replace it.
Still not sure? Call us. We’ll come out, check your system, and give it to you straight. No pressure. No upsells. Just answers.
Air Plus is your local AC pro. We’ll help you make the smart move.