Should You Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner?

July 25, 2025

Odds are, if you made it here, you’ve been searching online, “Should I replace or repair my AC?” or something to that effect. Luckily, you’ve landed with the right pros on the topic.

Harriman Heating & Air Conditioning has helped homeowners across Livonia, Novi, Farmington Hills, Canton, and the greater Metro Detroit area make this tough decision with confidence.

Let us walk you through evaluating your air conditioner’s performance, lifespan, and repair costs so you can make the right choice for your home and budget.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Might Just Need a Repair

Not every AC problem will require a full replacement, even if it is an older model. Some issues are relatively minor and can be fixed quickly and affordably.

If your AC is under 15 years old and has been well-maintained, a repair is often the smarter—and less expensive—choice. At Harriman, we offer prompt, professional AC repair service throughout Southeast Michigan, so you don’t have to sweat through the summer.

Here are some common signs an AC repair (DIY or professional) might be enough to get it back up and running for the rest of the summer:

Warm air or weak airflow coming from your vents

DIY Repair: Replace the air filter and make sure vents are open and unobstructed. Clear leaves or debris from around the outdoor unit.
Professional Repair: If airflow is still weak, a technician can clean dirty evaporator or condenser coils for better performance.

Loud noises, such as banging or rattling

DIY Repair: Tighten loose screws or panels and check for sticks, leaves, or small debris in the outdoor unit fan.
Professional Repair: If the noise continues, a pro can secure or insulate loose ductwork and inspect for failing motor bearings or a worn-out blower.

Strange odors, especially musty or burning smells

DIY Repair: Change the air filter and flush the condensate drain line with a vinegar solution to remove mildew.
Professional Repair: A technician can clean mold from internal components or identify electrical issues causing burning odors.

Short cycling, where the unit turns on and off rapidly

DIY Repair: Replace the filter and check thermostat placement—avoid areas with direct sunlight or drafts.
Professional Repair: An HVAC tech can test for low refrigerant levels, faulty sensors, or control board issues that may be causing the problem.

A frozen evaporator coil or water leaks

DIY Repair: Turn off the unit to let it thaw, replace the filter, and flush the drain line with vinegar to prevent clogs.
Professional Repair: If freezing recurs, a technician can inspect for refrigerant leaks or airflow problems that need deeper attention.

Sudden increase in energy bills

DIY Repair: Clean or replace the air filter, seal drafts around doors and windows, and clean the outdoor unit’s coils with a hose.
Professional Repair: A technician can run a system efficiency check and perform a tune-up, which often includes coil cleaning and airflow balancing.

When It’s Time to Consider AC Replacement

Sometimes, a repair just isn’t worth it. Here are a few red flags that indicate it may be time to invest in a new system:

1. Your AC is 15–20+ Years Old

Most air conditioners in Michigan have a lifespan of around 15–20 years, sometimes longer. If your system is near or past this range, especially if it’s had frequent breakdowns or doesn’t get routine annual maintenance, replacement might be the most cost-effective route.

2. You’re Facing Frequent or Expensive AC Repairs

If you’ve already made multiple service calls in the past few years—or if the latest repair quote is 50% or more of the cost of a new system—it’s probably time to stop pouring money into your AC unit.

3. Your Energy Bills Are Rising

Older systems tend to lose efficiency, especially if they haven’t had regular maintenance. New ENERGY STAR^®-rated models are significantly more energy-efficient, saving you money in the long run.

4. Inconsistent AC Temperatures or Poor Airflow

If you constantly battle uneven airflow (some rooms in your home are cool while others stay hot), your current system may be undersized, poorly installed, or just breaking down.

Benefits of Upgrading Your AC System

Upgrading your air conditioner doesn’t just mean better cooling—it also brings:

Improved energy efficiency (and lower monthly bills)
Enhanced comfort and humidity control
Quieter operation
Smart thermostat compatibility
Longer warranty coverage
Potential rebates or financing options

At Harriman Heating & Air Conditioning, we install high-quality systems tailored to your home size, layout, and budget. We proudly serve homeowners in Livonia, Farmington Hills, Redford, Plymouth, and beyond with expert AC installation backed by decades of experience.

Repair or Replace an AC: Use the 5,000 Rule to Decide

Still not sure whether to repair or replace? Try the 5,000 Rule:

Multiply the cost of the repair by the age of your system. If that number is over $5,000, replacement is usually the better choice.

Example:

A $600 repair on a 10-year-old system = $6,000 → Probably time to consider replacement.
Vs.
A $140 repair on a 10-year-old system = $1,400 → Probably best to complete the repair.

Still Not Sure? Schedule an AC Inspection

Every home and situation is unique. That’s why we offer professional AC inspections and consultations to help you decide what’s best. Our experienced technicians will assess your system, explain your options clearly, and never push you into a sale. Your comfort and trust come first.

Contact Harriman Today for AC Repair or Replacement in Southeast Michigan

Don’t let a struggling air conditioner ruin your summer. Whether your system just needs a quick fix or it’s time to upgrade, Harriman Heating & Air Conditioning has your back.

Why Choose Harriman Heating & Air Conditioning?

Family-owned and operated in Southeast Michigan since 1996
Licensed, NATE-certified technicians
Same day repair services
Financing options for new systems
Transparent pricing and honest advice
Full-service HVAC support, including maintenance plans

We’ve proudly served thousands of homeowners across Southfield, Franklin, West Bloomfield, Northville, and surrounding cities with honest, reliable air conditioning service. Whether you need a quick repair or a brand-new cooling system, we’re here to help.

Call us today at 734-271-6200 or request service online to get started.