Summertime in Texas isn’t the time to gamble on a failing air conditioner. If your AC has been struggling, breaking down, or running inefficiently, you might be wondering: Should I repair it, or is it time for a full air conditioning replacement?
At Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning, we know replacing an AC is a big decision. To help you determine if now is the right time for an upgrade, ask yourself these three key questions:
Has the current system ever worked perfectly?
1. Has Your Air Conditioner Ever Worked Perfectly?
The best AC system is the one you don’t notice. It should cool your home efficiently, quietly, and consistently—without temperature swings, loud noises, or constant cycling.
Ask yourself:
- Has your AC ever kept your home consistently cool?
- Do you frequently wake up too hot or too cold?
- Is your system noisy or constantly running?
If your AC never worked quite right, it might have been the wrong size for your home or installed incorrectly. In this case, repairs won’t fix fundamental design issues—a new system might be the only way to get the cooling you need.
However, if your AC used to work well but has declined over time, a repair could be a viable option. Schedule an evaluation with Radiant to determine if a fix will keep you cool or if a full replacement is the smarter move.
2. How Old Is Your Air Conditioner?
Age is one of the biggest factors in deciding between AC repair and replacement.
- Under 8 years old? Repairs may be worth considering.
- 8-12 years old? You’re on borrowed time—start planning for a new system.
- 12+ years old? You’re likely facing frequent breakdowns and reduced efficiency.
The lifespan of an AC depends on maintenance and installation quality:
- Regular maintenance (twice a year) can extend an AC’s life past 12 years.
- Neglecting tune-ups and filter changes leads to early system failure.
- Improper installation (restricted airflow, incorrect refrigerant charge) shortens lifespan significantly.
Be honest—have you been on top of AC maintenance? If not, and your system is over 8 years old, replacement may be the smartest long-term investment.
Concerned about rising AC costs? Read our latest article on why AC prices are skyrocketing—waiting too long could cost you even more!
3. How Much Time Do You Have for Repairs?
Much like an old, unreliable car, an aging AC requires more and more attention. At some point, constant repairs become a hassle.
Ask yourself:
- Are you tired of dealing with breakdowns?
- Do you want to avoid emergency AC failures in the middle of summer?
- Would you rather have a worry-free cooling system for the next 10+ years?
A new system eliminates the stress of repeated repairs, while also providing:
- Higher energy efficiency (lower electric bills)
- Improved cooling performance (consistent temperatures)
- Peace of mind for the next decade
If you’re done dealing with AC headaches, it’s time to explore your replacement options.
Not Sure? Call Radiant!
Still debating whether repairing or replacing your air conditioner is the right call? Let Radiant’s expert technicians take a look.
We provide a detailed evaluation of your system, so you know exactly where you stand. Our team is here to educate—not pressure—so you can make the best decision for your home and budget.
Schedule your AC consultation today! Don’t wait until your system fails on the hottest day of summer!
