Should You Repair or Replace Your Metro Detroit AC?

6 Things to Consider Before Replacing

If your air conditioner is struggling to keep up in Taylor, Madison Heights, and the surrounding areas, these six things to consider will help you decide whether to repair or replace it, based on your home, comfort, and budget.

1. Use the Industry Formula to Guide Your Decision

(This is the most important place to start)

HVAC professionals commonly use the $5,000 Rule to determine whether repair or replacement makes financial sense:

Age of the AC × Cost of the Repair = Decision Number

• Under $5,000: AC Repair is usually the better option
• Over $5,000: AC Replacement is typically the smarter long-term choice

Example:

If your AC is 12 years old and the repair costs $600:

12 × 600 = 7,200

In this case, replacement is often the better investment.

This formula gives you a clear, unbiased starting point before emotions or short-term thinking take over.

2. Consider the Age of Your Air Conditioner

Age plays a significant role in deciding whether to repair or replace your AC.

• Under 10 years old: Completing AC Repairs will often make the most sense.
• 10–15 years old: The decision depends on repair costs, system condition, efficiency (operating costs), and your AC system's performance (your comfort level).
• 15+ years old: AC Replacement over the life of the system is typically a more cost-effective option.

3. Look At How Often You Need An AC Repair

An occasional AC repair is normal. Repeated repairs are a warning sign that your system is starting to fail. Repair costs add up quickly. At a certain point, continuing to fix an aging system costs more than investing in a reliable, energy-efficient replacement.

4. Pay Attention to Rising Metro Detroit Energy Bills

Older AC systems were not designed to operate efficiently and will become less efficient as they age. This means your AC system must work harder to cool your home. If your energy bills keep climbing even though your usage has not changed, your air conditioner may be less efficient over time.

Newer systems cool more efficiently, run quieter, and can significantly reduce monthly energy costs.

5. Notice Comfort Issues Inside Your Home

Your AC may still run, but comfort problems can signal bigger issues:

• Uneven temperatures from room to room
• Weak airflow
• Excess humidity
• Longer cooling cycles

These problems often mean your system is no longer operating at its designed capacity.

6. Review Your Maintenance History

Regular AC maintenance can extend your AC's lifespan and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Systems maintained through Airflow Comfort Club typically perform better and last longer.

If AC maintenance has been inconsistent or skipped over the years, replacement may be the more dependable option moving forward.

Get Help Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Every home is different, and the repair-or-replace decision should be based on facts, not guesswork.

R&L Heating and Cooling has been helping homeowners stay comfortable since 1981. With 45 years of experience, our team provides honest evaluations and clear recommendations you can trust.

We proudly serve homeowners throughout Taylor, Madison Heights, Allen Park and surrounding areas.