Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Work Hours
Monday to Friday: 7AM - 7PM
Weekend: 10AM - 5PM
Table of Contents
Is your air conditioner struggling to keep up with Houston’s scorching summers? Deciding between repairing or replacing your AC or Upgrade Your AC Unit can be tricky. This guide breaks down the key factors to help you make the best choice—saving you money and frustration.
5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your AC
1. Your AC is Over 10-15 Years Old
- Average lifespan: 10-15 years (for standard-efficiency units).
- Older systems (pre-2010) use R-22 refrigerant (phased out, expensive to refill).
- Newer models (16+ SEER) save 20-40% on energy bills (ENERGY STAR).
💡 Tip: If repairs cost 50%+ of a new unit’s price, replacement is smarter.
2. Frequent Breakdowns & Rising Repair Costs
- Common red flags:
- Compressor failures ($1,200+ repairs).
- Refrigerant leaks ($500+ per fix).
- Blower motor issues ($600+).
- The 5,000Rule∗∗:If∗∗(RepairCost×Age)>5,000Rule∗∗:If∗∗(RepairCost×Age)>5,000, replace it.
Example: A 12-year-old AC needing a **1,200compressorrepair∗∗:‘1,200compressorrepair∗∗:‘1,200 × 12 = $14,400` → Replace!
3. Skyrocketing Energy Bills
- Older units (8-10 SEER) use 30-50% more energy than modern systems (16+ SEER).
- Savings example: Upgrading from a 10 SEER to 16 SEER unit can save $300+/year in Texas heat.
📊 Compare Costs:
| System Age | SEER Rating | Avg. Monthly Cost (Summer) |
|---|---|---|
| 15 years | 10 SEER | $250+ |
| New | 16 SEER | $150 |
4. Uneven Cooling & Poor Airflow
- Causes:
- Undersized/oversized unit.
- Failing ductwork (40% of homes have leaks).
- Solution: A properly sized, high-efficiency AC + duct sealing.
5. Your AC Uses R-22 Refrigerant
- R-22 (Freon) is phased out—prices hit **300+/pound∗∗(vs.300+/pound∗∗(vs.50 for R-410A).
- New units use eco-friendly Puron (R-410A).
When to Repair Instead of Replace
✅ Minor issues: Capacitor (200),thermostat(200),thermostat(150), or clogged drain line ($100).
✅ Unit is under 8 years old (unless major failure).
✅ Warranty coverage (check manufacturer terms).
Example Repairs Worth Fixing:
- Replacing a contactor ($250).
- Cleaning evaporator coils ($200).
Replacement vs. Repair Cost Comparison
| Option | Avg. Cost (Houston, TX) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repair | 150–150–1,500 | Low upfront cost | Temporary fix |
| Replace | 4,500–4,500–9,500+ | Energy savings, warranty | Higher initial investment |
Financing Tip: Many HVAC companies offer 0% APR for 12-24 months.
How to Decide: 3 Quick Questions
- Is your AC 10+ years old? → Likely replace.
- Are repairs over $1,500? → Likely replace.
- Are bills rising 20%+ yearly? → Likely replace.
Need Help Deciding?
📞 Call (832) 954-7678 for a FREE replacement estimate!
✔ Honest, no-pressure advice
✔ Same-day service in Houston & Richmond
