Home Repair

Repair or replace your air conditioner? How to decide

A broken AC in July makes it tempting to say yes to the first quote. A few facts about your system’s age, refrigerant and efficiency can help you decide whether a repair makes sense.

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AC not cooling?

Call a local HVAC company to ask about a repair visit or a replacement estimate.

Call an HVAC pro

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Signs it may be time to replace

It’s more than 10 years old

ENERGY STAR says to consider replacing a central AC or heat pump that’s more than 10 years old. Installed correctly, ENERGY STAR units can save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs.

Source: ENERGY STAR

Frequent repairs and rising bills

Age and wear can make equipment less efficient. ENERGY STAR lists frequent repairs and climbing energy bills as signs to consider a change.

Source: ENERGY STAR

Uneven rooms or humidity problems

These can come from leaky ducts, air leaks or poor insulation, not just the AC, so ask the contractor to check.

Source: ENERGY STAR

Older system? Check the refrigerant

Look at the nameplate on your outdoor unit to see which refrigerant it uses. Many older systems use HCFC-22 (R-22). The EPA says:

  • You don’t have to replace an R-22 system. New R-22 production and import ended January 1, 2020, but reclaimed R-22 is still available for repairs (EPA).
  • There’s no “drop-in” replacement for R-22. Other refrigerants won’t work well without changes to the system.
  • Ask the technician to find and fix leaks instead of just “topping off” refrigerant. That can cut repeat service calls.
  • Don’t let anyone put propane-based “R-22a” in your AC. EPA says these flammable refrigerants aren’t approved for existing systems (EPA).

If a repair means a big refrigerant leak on an old R-22 system, that’s often a good time to price out a replacement too.

Newer refrigerant rules

Under the AIM Act, the EPA is restricting high-global-warming-potential HFC refrigerants in new equipment, including home air conditioners and heat pumps (EPA). When you get a replacement quote, ask which refrigerant the new system uses and confirm that parts and service are available for it.

If you replace, consider a heat pump

ENERGY STAR says that in most cases a central AC can be replaced with a heat pump for a modest additional cost, which could let you eliminate or downsize your furnace (ENERGY STAR). Many newer models are made for cold climates, so ask about one suited to Illinois winters (ENERGY STAR).

For split systems, replace the indoor coil and the outdoor unit together. ENERGY STAR says installing a new outdoor unit without the matching indoor unit is likely to lower efficiency and can lead to early failure (ENERGY STAR guide).

Rebates and tax credits

Before you call: save on the service visit

  • Check the thermostat setting, breaker and the air filter. ENERGY STAR says to inspect, clean or change air filters once a month (ENERGY STAR).
  • Clear leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit.
  • If the condensate drain is clogged, it can cause water damage and mold, so have it checked (ENERGY STAR guide).

Hiring an HVAC contractor

  • The EPA says to work with technicians who have EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants. Ask for it (EPA).
  • Get at least two written quotes. Illinois law requires a written contract with the total price for home repair work over $1,000 (815 ILCS 513).
  • Ask the contractor to size the system for your home. ENERGY STAR notes oversized units tend to short-cycle and wear out sooner (ENERGY STAR).
  • Watch for high-pressure tactics and large cash deposits (FTC).

Want a second quote?

Call a local HVAC company to compare a repair price with a replacement estimate.

Call for a quote

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Common questions

How old is too old for a central air conditioner?

ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement when a central AC or heat pump is more than 10 years old, especially with frequent repairs or rising bills.

Do I have to replace my R-22 air conditioner?

No. The EPA says you can keep using and servicing it. New R-22 hasn’t been made or imported since 2020, but reclaimed R-22 is still available.

Is there still a federal tax credit for a new AC or heat pump?

No. The IRS says the 25C credit covers only improvements made through December 31, 2025. Check utility rebates instead.

Should I replace my AC with a heat pump?

ENERGY STAR says it often costs only a modest amount more and can replace or downsize your furnace. Ask a contractor about cold-climate models.

Does MegaSavings get paid?

MegaSavings may be paid when you call a provider through this page, at no cost to you. It doesn’t change the tips on this page, and you’re never obligated to hire anyone.

Sources

More guides: HVAC · Furnace repair · Home warranty · Home repair

Related: Heat pump installation

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Last reviewed: October 28, 2026