You’ve got an old AC unit, and it’s giving you problems. Now you’re wondering:
“Should I repair this thing again or just replace it?”
We get that question all the time here at On Time Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric. As one of Wichita’s most trusted HVAC companies, we’ve helped hundreds of local homeowners make the smart choice for their home and budget.
Here’s the honest truth:
It depends.
But don’t worry, we’ll break it down step by step so you can make the right call.
First: The Reality of an Aging AC
Air conditioners don’t last forever. If yours is between 10 and 15 years old, it’s probably nearing the end of its life, especially with the wild temperature swings we get here in Kansas.
If your system is only a few years old and something small breaks, go ahead and fix it. Easy call.
But if it’s been over a decade and now you’re hearing strange noises, getting weak airflow, or seeing your energy bill spike—those are red flags.
Here’s How We Help You Decide
When someone in Wichita calls us with this question, we look at four key factors:
1. How Old Is Your AC?
If your unit is 10+ years old, it’s already at risk. Parts are wearing down. Efficiency is fading. And if your warranty has expired, every repair comes straight out of your pocket.
On top of that, today’s AC systems are 30% to 50% more efficient than older models. That could mean saving hundreds on your energy bills every year.
Bottom line: If it’s old and breaking down, replacement usually makes more sense.
2. What’s the Cost to Repair It?
Our general rule here in Wichita:
If the repair costs over $1,000 and the unit is 10+ years old, replace it.
Let’s say your 13-year-old AC needs a new compressor (that’s a big one). That repair could cost between $1,200 and $1,800. That’s nearly half the price of a new system.
Would you put a new engine in a 15-year-old car? Probably not. Same idea here.
But if your unit is under 8 years old and just needs a fan motor or capacitor? Fix it and move on.
3. How Often Does It Break Down?
One repair? Not a big deal.
Three repairs in one year? That’s a pattern.
If your AC is constantly acting up, it’s not a coincidence—it’s a warning sign. You’re throwing good money after bad.
We’ve seen it again and again in homes across Wichita. People spend thousands trying to keep an old unit alive when a brand-new one would save them money and stress in the long run.
4. Are Your Energy Bills Climbing?
If your power bill is rising and your home still isn’t cool, your AC could be the reason.
New AC systems come with higher SEER ratings (that’s energy efficiency). Older systems might be SEER 10–12. Newer ones? SEER 15, 16, even 20+.
That means more cooling with less electricity. And that adds up fast, especially during those hot Kansas summers.
Quick Rule: The 50% Formula
Here’s a fast way to make your decision:
If the repair cost is more than 50% of what it would cost to replace the unit, replace it.
Example:
But if the repair is only $300? Fix it and move on.
Bonus: What Are Your Plans?
Are you selling your home soon? A new AC can increase your home’s value and help it sell faster.
Staying put for the next 5–10 years? Then investing in a new system will pay off in reliability, comfort, and lower utility bills.
And if money is tight right now? No worries. We offer financing options to help spread out the cost.
What We’d Tell Our Own Families
At On Time Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric, we treat every customer like family. That means we’ll always be straight with you.
You deserve comfort. You deserve lower bills. And you deserve a system that works when you need it most.
Final Take
Here’s the quick checklist:
Repair your AC if:
Replace it if:
Still not sure?
Give us a call. We’ll come out, inspect your system, and give you honest advice, no pressure, no upsells.
On Time Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric is Wichita’s trusted HVAC team.
Let’s figure out the best move for your home and your wallet.
Disclaimer: The pricing examples provided in this article are for general educational purposes only and may not reflect current market rates in Wichita, KS. For an accurate estimate, please schedule a consultation with On Time Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric. We provide upfront, honest pricing with no surprises.
