If your air conditioner is pushing 20 years and starting to show signs of age, you may be wondering whether to repair or replace it. At Apple AC & Heat Services in Rockwall, TX, we help homeowners make this decision every day—and we’ll tell you upfront: in most cases, fixing a 20-year-old AC unit isn’t the best use of your money.
While no two situations are identical, most air conditioners that reach the 20-year mark are already running well beyond their expected lifespan. Even with occasional repairs and regular maintenance, older units simply can’t match the performance, reliability, and energy efficiency of today’s systems. Here’s what to consider before putting more money into an aging AC.
How Long Do AC Units Typically Last?
Most air conditioning systems are built to last about 12 to 15 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and the local climate. In Rockwall, where ACs run for months at a time in triple-digit heat, that life expectancy can be shorter.
If your system is 20 years old, it’s already exceeded its design life by several years. Even if it’s still running, performance is likely declining—and you may be paying more than you should just to keep it going.
Repair Costs vs. Replacement Value
A good rule of thumb in the HVAC world is this: if the repair costs more than 50% of the value of a new system, it’s time to replace. For example, if you’re facing a $3,200 repair on a 20-year-old unit and a new system would cost around $4,000 to $6,000, repair makes little financial sense.
Plus, with older units, one AC repair often leads to another. Even if you fix a compressor today, next month it might be the blower motor, capacitor, or coil. This cycle can cost you thousands with no long-term payoff.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
A 20-year-old AC system is far less efficient than even the most basic models manufactured today. Older units often have SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings as low as 8 to 10. Modern units start at 14 SEER and can go well above 20.
The difference in energy use is substantial. Replacing an old, low-efficiency system with a high-efficiency model can reduce your cooling bills by 20% to 40% or more. Over the next few years, those savings alone may pay for the new system.
Refrigerant Availability and Cost
If your older AC unit still uses R-22 refrigerant (also known as Freon), repairing it may not even be an option. R-22 was phased out by the EPA and is no longer produced in the U.S. That means it’s hard to find and very expensive—and systems using it are being retired industry-wide.
If your technician finds a refrigerant leak in a 20-year-old system, it’s almost always more practical to invest in a new, R-410A compatible system instead of tracking down costly R-22.
Comfort, Noise, and Air Quality
Older air conditioners don’t just struggle to cool efficiently—they also often cool unevenly, fail to manage humidity properly, and make more noise than modern systems. You might have noticed hot spots in certain rooms, loud operation, or excessive dryness in the air.
Modern systems are quieter, cleaner, and better at controlling indoor humidity, which matters a lot during Rockwall’s muggy summer months. They’re also more compatible with smart thermostats and indoor air quality upgrades like dehumidifiers and air purifiers.
When Might It Make Sense to Repair?
There are a few situations where repairing a 20-year-old unit might be a reasonable short-term solution:
- The repair is minor and inexpensive (like a capacitor or contactor)
- You plan to move within the next year and want to delay replacement
- The system has been extremely well-maintained with few prior issues
Even in these cases, it’s worth asking your HVAC technician about the overall condition of the unit and whether other problems are likely to follow.
What Apple AC & Heat Services Recommends
At Apple AC & Heat Services, we don’t believe in pushy sales tactics. Our goal is to give you honest advice based on the condition of your system, the cost of the repair, and your long-term comfort goals.
We’ll inspect your 20-year-old unit and tell you clearly whether repair is worth it—or if a new system is the smarter investment. If you choose to replace, we’ll help you select an energy-efficient option that’s properly sized for your home, professionally installed, and backed by warranty.
We also offer financing options to make replacement more manageable and seasonal maintenance plans to protect your new system for years to come.
Don’t Let an Aging AC Drain Your Wallet
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth fixing your 20-year-old AC unit, the answer is almost always: it’s time to replace your AC unit. You’ll get better cooling, lower bills, fewer breakdowns, and a more comfortable home—all backed by a new system warranty.
Call Apple AC & Heat Services in Rockwall, TX today or schedule a consultation online. We’ll give you clear answers and professional guidance—so you can make the decision that’s best for your home and budget.
