Repair usually makes sense when your system is under about 10 years old and has a single failed part. Replacement usually makes sense when your system is 12 to 15 years old or more and needs a major repair, uses R-22 refrigerant or keeps breaking down. Here is how we help homeowners decide.
A simple rule of thumb
Multiply the age of your system by the cost of the repair. If the number is more than about $5,000, replacement is usually worth a serious look. For example, a $1,000 repair on a 6-year-old system ($6,000) is borderline, while a $400 capacitor on the same system ($2,400) is an easy repair. This is a starting point, not a rule, and we will talk it through with you.
Factors we weigh together
- AgeMost Arizona systems last about 10 to 15 years.
- Repair costCommon fixes like capacitors ($150–$450) are almost always worth doing. Compressors ($1,800–$4,500) on older systems often are not.
- RefrigerantR-22 is no longer produced, so recharges keep getting more expensive.
- Repair historyFrequent breakdowns usually mean more are coming.
- Comfort and energyNewer systems can cool more evenly and use less electricity.
What we will never do
We will not push a replacement when a repair will do the job. When a repair makes sense, we will tell you. When replacement makes more sense, we will show you why, with written pricing for both options, and let you decide.
Related prices
| Service | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Capacitor Replacement | $150–$450 |
| Condenser Fan Motor Replacement | $350–$800 |
| Compressor Replacement | $1,800–$4,500 |
| Complete A/C System Replacement | $7,000–$18,000+ |
Typical ranges for guidance only; your exact price is given in writing before any work begins. See our full price guide.