When Should I Upgrade My Air Conditioner?

Andrew, Technician.
Jun 27
2 min read

When Should I Upgrade My Air Conditioner?

As the summer heat rolls in, your air conditioner becomes one of the most important appliances in your home. But how do you know when it’s time to upgrade your system rather than keep repairing the one you have? Here's a guide to help you decide.

1. Your AC is Over 10–15 Years Old

Most air conditioners have a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. If your unit is approaching or past this age, it’s likely less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. Even with regular maintenance, older units just can’t compete with newer models in terms of performance and energy savings.

Tip: Check the manufacture date on the metal nameplate near the condenser. If it's over a decade old, it's time to consider an upgrade.

2. You're Facing Frequent Repairs

Are you calling the HVAC technician more than once a season? Repairs add up quickly especially if you're replacing expensive parts like compressors or coils. At a certain point, it makes more sense financially to put that money toward a new system.

Rule of Thumb: If your repair costs exceed 50% of the value of a new unit, replacement is usually the smarter move.

3. Your Energy Bills Are Creeping Up

Older AC units tend to be far less energy efficient, especially those built before modern SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) standards improved. If your electricity bills have risen year over year and you're using the same amount of cooling, your system may be to blame.

Solution: New ENERGY STAR® certified units can save you 20–40% on cooling costs.

4. Your Home Feels Humid or Unevenly Cooled

If some rooms are too hot while others are too cold—or if you’re noticing sticky humidity indoors—your AC might be struggling to do its job. It could be an issue with the size of the system or worn-out components.

Note: Modern systems often include variable-speed fans and better humidity control to make your home more comfortable year-round.

5. Your AC Uses R-22 Refrigerant (Freon)

As of 2020, R-22 refrigerant has been phased out due to environmental regulations. If your current AC uses R-22, any repairs that involve recharging the system will be costly and hard to source. New units use eco-friendly alternatives like R-410A, which are more efficient and safer.

6. You’re Planning Home Renovations or Selling Soon

If you’re remodelling or putting your home on the market, upgrading your air conditioner can be a smart investment. A new, high-efficiency unit not only complements the comfort of your upgraded home but can also increase resale value and attract buyers.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your air conditioner isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s about improving comfort, saving on energy bills, and investing in your home’s future. If your current unit is old, inefficient, or unreliable, talk to a licensed HVAC professional about your options.

Need help deciding? Contact AeroFusion Heating & Cooling

at +1-289-306-0542 for a free consultation.