Is It Time to Repair or Replace Your AC Unit?

HVAC

Blog
// Posted by Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc.

As temperatures rise, your AC unit works hard to keep your home comfortable. But when issues arise, you might wonder: should you repair it or replace it? At Crossville Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners make the best choice for their cooling needs with expert advice and fast, reliable service.

Key Takeaways

  • Repair Your AC if it’s under 10 years old and has minor issues.
  • Replace Your AC if it’s 10–15+ years old and requires frequent repairs.
  • Energy Bills Matter – A rising utility bill could mean it’s time for a new, more efficient system.
  • Cooling Consistency – If your system struggles to maintain comfort, consider an upgrade.
  • Professional Advice – A trusted HVAC expert can help you decide the best path forward.

When to Repair Your AC

If your AC is still relatively new and the problems are minor, a repair may be the most cost-effective solution. Consider repairing your unit if:

  • Your unit is under 10 years old – AC systems typically last 10–15 years.
  • It has needed only 2 or fewer major repairs – If past repairs have been minimal, another fix might be worth it.
  • Your energy bills are slightly higher – A minor adjustment or repair can restore efficiency.
  • You notice minor leaks or moisture – These issues can often be fixed without replacing the entire unit.
  • Strange noises or weak airflow – Minor fixes such as cleaning coils or replacing filters can resolve these issues.
  • You plan to move soon – If you're selling your home in the near future, repairing instead of replacing may be the more practical option.

When to Replace Your AC

If your AC is aging or requires constant attention, replacing it might be the better long-term investment. Signs it’s time for a new system include:

  • Your unit is 10–15+ years old – Older systems lose efficiency and struggle to keep up.
  • You’ve had 3 or more major repairs – Frequent breakdowns indicate the system is wearing out.
  • Your energy bills keep rising – An inefficient system costs more to run and cools less effectively.
  • Your home has inconsistent cooling – Uneven temperatures signal it’s time for an upgrade.
  • Refrigerant leaks – If your unit uses outdated refrigerant (like R-22), replacing it is often more cost-effective than repairing.
  • Your home’s comfort needs have changed – If you've added space or made significant renovations, an upgraded system may better suit your home’s cooling needs.

Benefits of a New AC System

Investing in a new AC system offers several advantages:

  • Improved energy efficiency – Newer models use less energy, lowering your utility bills.
  • Better indoor air quality – Advanced filtration systems improve air circulation and reduce allergens.
  • Smart technology compatibility – Many modern AC units integrate with smart thermostats for enhanced control and savings.
  • Enhanced warranty coverage – A new unit comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, giving you peace of mind.

Get a Professional Opinion

Still unsure whether to repair or replace? Crossville Heating & Cooling offers FREE estimates and financing options to help you make the best decision for your home.

Conclusion

Making the right choice for your AC unit ensures long-term comfort and savings. Whether it’s a simple repair or a full replacement, Crossville Heating & Cooling is the fastest in town—guaranteed! Contact us today for expert service and a stress-free cooling experience.

HVAC Technician installing a electric heat pump
About Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc.
Locally owned and operated since 1982, Crossville Heating & Cooling, Inc. serves Middle and East Tennessee with heating, air, plumbing, and generator services. We provide fast, eco-friendly solutions for homes and light businesses — your trusted comfort partner for over 40 years.
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FAQ

What are the common causes of an air conditioning unit blowing cold air outside?

Common causes include refrigerant leaks or low refrigerant levels, frozen or dirty coils, airflow issues, drainage problems, electrical faults, compressor failure, and fan motor issues.

FAQ

What can cause my furnace to short cycle?

Short cycling can happen if your air filter is dirty or air vents are blocked. Make sure to change the air filter often and keep all vents open. This helps with airflow and stops overheating.

FAQ

What are some common reasons why my air conditioner is not blowing cold air?

Your air conditioner might not cool properly due to a clogged filter, drain, or condensate airflow switch issues. Other reasons include a dirty air compressor, ice buildup, low refrigerant levels, power problems, or thermostat issues.

How does an air conditioning system work, and why is it important to understand the refrigeration cycle and heat transfer process?

An AC system works by moving refrigerant between indoor and outdoor units. It absorbs heat from inside and sends it outside. Knowing how the refrigeration cycle and heat transfer work helps fix cooling problems.

How do I troubleshoot issues with my thermostat?

First, check that your thermostat is set right and the temperature is correct. Change the batteries and reset it as the maker suggests. If it still doesn't work, you might need a pro to fix or replace it.

How can I troubleshoot a clogged air filter on my air conditioner?

First, check the air filter and clean or replace it if it's dirty. Regularly changing the filters helps avoid clogs and keeps airflow smooth.

What are the signs that an air conditioning unit is blowing cold air outside?

Signs include the AC running all the time but not cooling the house, warm air coming from vents, and the outdoor unit feeling cool. You might also see frost or ice on the coils.

What are the signs of a cracked heat exchanger?

A cracked heat exchanger can let harmful gases like carbon monoxide into your home. Look out for your heater stopping suddenly and a smell like a funeral home. If you see these signs, get out of the house fast and call for help.

What should I do if I suspect a clogged drain on my air conditioner?

A clogged drain can make your unit shut down. You might need to clean or replace the drain with a mild bleach solution.

What basic checks should be done when an AC is blowing cold air outside?

First, make sure the thermostat is set to "cool" and the temperature is lower than inside. Check the circuit breakers for both units are on and haven't tripped.

What should I do if my furnace isn't powering on?

It might be a tripped circuit breaker. Just flip the breaker for your HVAC unit back to "ON" to fix the power. If it still doesn't work, you'll need a pro to check it out.

How can I tell if the condensate airflow switch is causing my AC to not blow cold air?

If a water backup in the drain turns off your AC, clear the condenser drainpipe first. Then, reset the switch.

How can restricted airflow contribute to an AC blowing cold air outside?

Blocked air filters or vents can stop proper airflow. This stops the heat transfer and makes the cold air go outside instead of in.

When should I call for emergency heating repair services?

Call for emergency heating repair if your heater stops working at night or on a weekend. Being without heat in cold weather is risky and can cause hypothermia. A pro can quickly find and fix the problem to warm your home up again.

How do I clean the air compressor on my air conditioner?

Start by removing any dirt, leaves, or debris around the outdoor air compressor. For a deeper clean, consider hiring a professional HVAC technician.

What is the impact of a refrigerant leak or low refrigerant levels on an AC unit?

Without enough refrigerant, the AC can't cool the air well. A leak or low levels can freeze the coils and send cold air outside.

What are some common heating system problems I may experience?

You might see your system not turning off, uneven heating, or cool air from the vents. These problems can come from thermostat issues, airflow problems, or fuel supply issues. A pro HVAC technician can figure out and fix the issue for you.

What should I do if I notice ice buildup on my air conditioner?

Ice means your AC might have airflow issues or low refrigerant. Try running the fan to melt the ice. Then, check the air filters and coils. If it doesn't work, a technician can help.

How can frozen or dirty coils contribute to an AC blowing cold air outside?

Frozen coils block airflow and stop heat transfer, sending cold air outside. Dirty coils also stop the heat from being released, making the AC struggle to cool the air.

How can I tell if my air conditioner is low on refrigerant?

A lack of cooling often means a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant shouldn't decrease over time. A leak requires professional repair.

What role does the condensate drain play in an AC blowing cold air outside?

A blocked condensate drain can make the system freeze or shut down. This sends cold air outside instead of inside.

What should I check if my air conditioner's thermostat is not working properly?

Make sure the thermostat is set correctly and the wiring is right. Check the thermostat batteries and replace them if they're dead.

HVAC Technician installing a electric heat pump
About Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc.
Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc. is a locally owned heating and air conditioning company that provides sales, service, and installation of any type of heating or cooling in your home or light commercial building.

Although the name Crossville Heating and Cooling, Inc. is new, Mr. Richard Gilmer has been in the business of keeping his neighbors comfortable since 1998. As our presence in the HVAC contractors industry has evolved, we decided to change the name of our business to better reflect our commitment to the Middle TN area.

Our core values include implementing economically friendly products and practices to better contribute to the health and home of our customers. We are EPA certified and ensure that all refrigerant is recycled and all equipment is disposed of as per environmentally-safe standards. Our service techs and installers are trained to conduct business with minimal disruption to your daily lifestyle so that the only impact we make is a positive one

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