When summer heat hits hard, your air conditioner becomes more than a luxury—it’s a lifeline. But what happens when your system starts to struggle? Should you call for a repair, or is it time to replace the whole unit? Here’s how to know the difference—and avoid expensive surprises.
Listen to what your AC is telling you
Your HVAC system speaks in signs—odd noises, inconsistent cooling, rising energy bills. Learning to recognize these signs early can save you thousands in emergency replacements.
“Most homeowners wait too long before replacing their AC. The key is knowing when a repair just won’t cut it anymore.”
— Lead Technician at Keep America Cool
Signs your AC likely needs a repair
In many cases, a quick repair can get your air conditioner back on track. Look out for these common (but fixable) issues:
- Warm air blowing from the vents
- Unusual noises, like grinding or squealing
- Frequent cycling on and off
- Water leaks around the unit
- Increased humidity inside your home
If you notice one or two of these, it’s likely something our technicians can fix without replacing the whole system.
Signs it’s time to replace your AC
Some issues go beyond basic repairs. If your unit is showing these red flags, replacement might be the smarter (and more cost-effective) move:
- Your system is over 10–15 years old.
- You’ve needed multiple repairs in the past year.
- Your energy bills keep climbing despite regular use.
- It uses R-22 refrigerant, which is no longer produced.
- Your home is never quite comfortable, even when the AC is on full blast.
Repair or replace? Ask yourself these questions
Still not sure which way to go? Answer these:
- How old is your current unit?
- Have your cooling needs changed?
- Is your warranty still valid?
- How much are you currently spending on energy?
If you answered “yes” to higher energy costs, rising repair bills, or inconsistent comfort—replacement might be your best bet.