Repair vs Replace in Texas Heat — Data-Based Guide

Your AC just died in 100-degree heat and a contractor is telling you it needs replacing. But does it really? After 27 years serving Grapevine and North Texas, here’s the honest framework we use to help homeowners decide—based on data, not sales goals.

The 5000 Rule: Repair or Replace?

Multiply the repair cost by the system age. If it exceeds $5,000, replacement usually makes more sense:

• Example 1: $800 repair × 8 years old = $6,400 → Consider replacing
• Example 2: $400 repair × 10 years old = $4,000 → Repair makes sense
• Example 3: $1,200 repair × 14 years old = $16,800 → Definitely replace

Major Repairs: When Replacement Makes Sense

• Compressor failure: $1,800-3,500
• Evaporator coil leak: $1,200-2,500
• Condenser coil replacement: $1,500-3,000
• Heat exchanger cracked (safety issue): $1,500-2,800

Minor Repairs: Almost Always Worth It

• Capacitor replacement: $150-300
• Contactor replacement: $150-250
• Thermostat issues: $150-500
• Blower motor cleaning: $200-500

Red Flags That Say Replace

• System over 15 years old in North Texas
• Second major repair in 2 years
• Efficiency below 13 SEER
• Refrigerant type is R-22 (obsolete and expensive)
• Comfort issues beyond just the equipment (airflow, static pressure)

Green Flags That Say Repair

• System under 8 years old
• First major issue in system’s life
• Well-maintained with regular tune-ups
• Modern refrigerant (R-410A)

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I repair or replace my AC if it uses R-22 refrigerant? Replace it. R-22 production ended in 2020, making it increasingly expensive and scarce. Investing in a major repair for an R-22 system is investing in obsolete technology. Is it worth replacing an AC that still works but is old and inefficient? Calculate your energy savings. A new system might save $40-60/month in summer. Over 10 years, those savings plus avoided repairs can often justify the investment. What repairs are never worth doing on an old AC? On systems over 12 years old, avoid expensive repairs like compressor or evaporator coil replacement. These costs usually don’t provide enough remaining service life to justify the expense.