AC Repair vs. Replacement: Making the ROI Calculation
Is it better to repair your aging AC unit or replace it entirely? We break down the costs and ROI.
When your air conditioner breaks down in the middle of summer, you face a tough decision: repair or replace?
The 5000 Rule
A common industry rule of thumb is to multiply the age of the equipment by the estimated cost of the repair. If the number exceeds 5,000, you should seriously consider replacing the unit.
For example, a $500 repair on a 12-year-old system ($500 x 12 = 6,000) strongly suggests replacement is the more economical long-term choice.
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When to Repair
If your system is relatively young, well-maintained, and the repair is minor (like a blown capacitor or a simple refrigerant recharge), repairing it is usually the best path forward.
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