🔧 AC broken or not cooling?
Should I Repair or Replace My AC Unit?
If your AC stopped cooling or keeps breaking down, the right answer depends on its age, the repair cost and the refrigerant it uses. Here's how to decide with numbers, not guesses.
📞 Call now: (407) 543-2040Do you own your home?
Quick answer: when to replace your AC
Replace your air conditioner if it is 10 or more years old and the repair costs more than 30% of a new system, if it uses R-22 refrigerant, or if it has needed two or more repairs in the last year. Repair it if the unit is under 8 years old and the problem is a minor part such as a capacitor, contactor or thermostat.
The $5,000 rule
Multiply the age of your AC by the repair quote. If the result is more than $5,000, replacement is usually the better investment. Example: a 12-year-old system with a $600 repair gives 7,200, so replacing makes more financial sense.
Typical AC repair costs in Florida
- Capacitor or contactor: $150–$400 (usually worth repairing)
- Refrigerant leak repair and recharge: $600–$1,500+ (expensive with R-22)
- Evaporator coil replacement: $1,200–$2,800
- Compressor replacement: $1,800–$3,500 (often 50%+ of a new system)
AC not cooling the house: should I replace it?
An AC that runs but does not cool can be a simple clogged filter, a frozen coil or low refrigerant. But in a system older than 10 years, low refrigerant usually means a leak in a worn coil, and a failing compressor rarely justifies the repair. If the diagnosis points to the coil or compressor, replacement is almost always the smarter choice.
Customer Reviews
What Florida Homeowners Say
Jasmine Flowers
Local Guide · Google Review
“Wow! They did amazing from start to finish. We needed a new outdoor unit and they ended up replacing both the indoor and outdoor unit for a great price. Everyone else quoted us thousands more than them and they delivered excellent service and quality products.”
Teddy Anderson
Google Review
“I had them replace my HVAC system and they couldn't have come at a better time. The AC unit quit working during one of the hottest periods in July. They were there when they said they would and replaced the system in a timely fashion.”
Sophia Contreras
Google Review
“Was struggling with getting a AC at a good price and Miguel was very direct honest and bilingual, and I felt like I got a good deal and I would hire him again. I am going to recommend him to all my friends and family. Couldn't be happier.”
Julius Davis
Google Review
“Miguel made this hands down... the best experience I've ever received from a HVAC company. Great communication. Spoke to me in a way that I understood what was going on. Allowed me to feel involved every step of the way.”
Who installs your new AC?
Home AC Upgrade handles the consultation, equipment selection and financing. Installation across Central Florida is performed by our state-licensed and insured partners.