If your AC is over 10 years old and the repair costs more than half of a new system’s price, replacement usually makes more sense. Connecticut’s energy costs and rebate programs often make new, efficient systems surprisingly affordable when you factor in long-term savings.
We use the “5,000 rule” as a guideline: multiply your system’s age by the repair cost. If that number exceeds $5,000, replacement is typically the smarter financial choice. A 12-year-old system needing a $600 repair equals $7,200—probably time for a new unit.
However, well-maintained systems can run efficiently for 15+ years. If you’ve kept up with regular maintenance and this is your first major repair, fixing it might give you several more good years. We’ll give you honest advice based on your specific situation, not what makes us the most money.