Here are the top 3 signs that your AC is nearing the end—and what you, as a homeowner, can do to figure out the next best move.
1️⃣ The Cooling Just Isn’t Cutting It Anymore
If your AC is struggling to keep up with demand—especially on hotter days—it’s a strong indicator that the system’s efficiency is slipping. You might notice:
- The house takes longer to cool down.
- Some rooms never quite get comfortable.
- The thermostat setting and reality feel miles apart.
- Ice forms on the outdoor unit and or copper refrigerant lines
This usually points to an aging compressor, a refrigerant leak, or worn-out coils—all of which can be costly to repair.
What to Do:
Start by checking your filters and vents to rule out airflow restrictions (the easy fixes). If everything’s clear, have a technician run a performance test. If your system is more than 10–15 years old and repairs are looking steep, it may be time to consider a replacement.
2️⃣ It’s Racking Up Repair Costs
An AC system that’s constantly breaking down is a red flag. If you’re calling the HVAC company every few months for things like:
- Capacitor replacements
- Refrigerant recharges
- Electrical issues
- Fan motor failures
…it’s adding up. And the money spent on repairs doesn’t extend the life of the system much—it’s just prolonging the inevitable.
What to Do:
Add up your repair costs from the last year or two. If they’re approaching $300–$500 per year, it’s worth comparing that against the cost of a new, warranty-backed system. Also, consider the age of your AC. If it’s past 10–15 years, you’re likely nearing the point where repairs are just a band-aid. My article on the cost breakdown of replace vs wait can be found here.
3️⃣ It’s Running Longer and Driving Up Your Bills
Older systems lose efficiency over time. If your AC is running longer cycles or seems to be on all the time just to maintain a comfortable temperature, it’s using more energy—and costing you more.
Here’s a simple way to estimate the impact:
- Look at your summer energy bills over the last few years.
- If you notice a consistent upward trend (without major rate hikes from your utility), your AC’s declining efficiency could be the culprit.
What to Do:
Compare your bills to what they were 5–10 years ago. A 10–15 SEER system installed years ago isn’t nearly as efficient as modern 14–20 SEER models. If your cooling costs have jumped 20% or more, it might be time to run the numbers on a replacement versus the continued energy drain.
🏠 Steps to Take Before Replacing
If you’re seeing one or more of these signs, don’t panic. Here’s a simple action plan:
✅ Get a professional inspection. A licensed HVAC tech can run diagnostics, measure refrigerant levels, and test system performance.
✅ Compare repair vs. replace costs. Use recent repair totals and compare them to replacement quotes. Don’t forget to factor in energy savings and warranties on new systems.
✅ Check for rebates and financing. Many manufacturers and local utilities offer rebates or financing options that can ease the upfront cost of a new AC.
✅ Consider the age of the system. If it’s older than 10–15 years and repairs are frequent or expensive, replacement is likely the smarter financial move.
Final Thoughts
Your AC won’t last forever, but that doesn’t mean you have to be caught off-guard. By watching for these three telltale signs—and taking proactive steps—you can plan a smoother transition to a newer, more efficient system. And hey, your wallet (and your comfort) will thank you.
Premier Mechanical – www.claimyourcomfort.com – 720.207.6812.