When your air conditioner starts having issues in the middle of Houston’s Bay Area heat, the big question is: Should you repair or replace it?

Our location along the Texas Gulf Coast means the weather is hot and humid much of the year. A good air conditioner or heat pump can really change your indoor comfort. But when the air isn’t blowing cold or the thermostat can’t keep up, it’s time to get professional help.

If your air conditioner keeps breaking down and repairs have gotten out of hand, it may be time to consider replacing your AC. Whether you’re in Seabrook, Clear Lake, Pearland, or Webster, there are several questions we ask to help you weigh the pros and cons for repairing or replacing your air conditioner or heat pump.

1. How Old Is Your AC System?

This question is probably the most telling, and it is the first question we ask. If your AC system is more than 10-15 years old, it may be nearing the end of its typical lifespan, and it has outlived its manufacturer’s warranty, too.

While some units can last up to 15-20 years with regular preventative maintenance, the older your system is, the more likely you will need to replace it. You may need to weigh in the hassle factor of having to deal with more frequent breakdowns and higher energy bills.

A newer system will nearly always be more energy efficient, have an intact warranty that covers any large mechanical failures, and have parts that are easier and cheaper to obtain. This is a plus when your AC breaks down.

ProTip: As a general rule of thumb, major repairs more than $1,500 or 30% of the cost of a new system may make a new AC system a better investment.

2. Is Your AC System Under Warranty?

If your AC has a major part failure and it’s less than 10 years old, your air conditioner might still be covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. While the warranty won’t cover consumable parts or labor, it can protect you from an expensive, unforeseen mechanical failure, such as a compressor or evaporator coil going out.

Any AC contractor can look up your equipment’s warranty on the manufacturer’s website. Keep in mind that warranty repairs may require proof of annual maintenance. And, AC companies are generally required to turn in the part for factory inspection. If the repair falls under warranty and the part is readily available, repairing your AC may make the most sense.

ProTip: Some AC companies will throw in a Labor Warranty when installing a new AC system to provide better service to their customers. This makes fulfilling a warranty service simple for customers.

3. Is the Part Available and Affordable?

Some replacement parts are hard to come by or shockingly expensive, especially for older systems or discontinued models. If your technician says the part is backordered, no longer manufactured, or costs much more than expected, that’s a red flag.

Sometimes we check multiple distributors including those across the state to get parts overnighted to us.

Bottom line, if parts or supplies are more expensive, putting money toward a newer, more reliable system may be the smarter move.

4. Does the Repair Involve Refrigerant?

If your system has a refrigerant leak, a repair could be costly, especially if your system is old. If your system is running with R-22 (a brand most often recognized as Freon), no more “new” supplies are being manufactured which is why it is so expensive.

Even R-410A (one brand is called Puron), which was recently phased down by the EPA, means that supply is also expected to dwindle in the coming years. In 2025, new AC systems and heat pumps use R-454B or R-32, refrigerants deemed more friendly to the environment.

This is why repairs on older equipment involving refrigerant are often band-aids, not a long-term solution. If your system is leaking refrigerant and it’s older, we typically recommend replacement.

5. Are Rebates or Tax Incentives Available?

Upgrading your AC or heat pump could come with money-saving perks. Ask your favorite AC provider to help you explore rebates, deals, and tax credits.

  • CenterPoint Energy rebates – Castle A/C & Heating can help you apply for $200–$900+ toward high-efficiency systems through our partnership with our Houston area AC parts distributors.
  • Federal tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades can give you a savings of up to 30% of the cost in some cases. There are some special conditions to apply for these tax credits which expire December 31, 2025. Many heat pump systems are eligible, including versatile mini split systems.
  • Manufacturer promotions during cooler months may be available through our partnerships with American Standard and other manufacturers. It pays to ask if there are specials available.

6. How Often Are You Scheduling Repairs?

Another thing to consider is how often you’re calling for AC repairs. Is it becoming a hassle and are you noticing a pattern? If you’ve called for service multiple times or having major parts fail, you may be throwing money at a system that’s near the end of its useful life.

Watch for signs of failure:

  • Unpredictable breakdowns during hot spells
  • Higher utility bills from inefficient operation
  • Strange noises when the system cranks on or off
  • A system not able to cool effectively during summer’s peak

If you’re already investing in preventative maintenance, we keep records of how you’re system is doing and can let you know if we see anything concerning. If you’re scheduling more than your share of repairs, it might be time for an upgrade.

7. What’s Your Long-Term Plan for the Home?

If you plan to sell your home soon, replacing your AC system with a budget model could add value and boost buyer confidence.

On the other hand, if you’re planning to stay long-term, a new more efficient system with a high SEER rating will give you a solid warranty, better comfort, and savings on energy bills. Some of our customers in Pearland and Seabrook have installed smart, variable-speed heat pump systems that reduce humidity more effectively and integrate with smart thermostats.

Still Not Sure? Let Us Help You Decide.

We know it’s a big decision to repair or replace an AC system and a significant investment. We’re here to help you weigh your options, whether you’re looking for an economy model or the top of the line variable speed heat pump. We offer financing so you can get the system you need and pay over time with approved credit.

Whether you’re in Webster, Clear Lake, Seabrook or nearby, Castle A/C & Heating offers service fit for royalty with clear upfront pricing with no surprises.

Get AC Repair or Replacement in Houston’s Bay Area

Whether you’re ready for an upgrade or hoping to stretch your current AC system a little longer with an AC repair, schedule an appointment with Castle A/C & Heating today. Our licensed HVAC technicians will help you figure out what makes the most sense for your home to keep you comfortable.

We serve Houstonians all around city including Houston’s Bay Area and far west Houston. Contact us at (713) 667-7606 or schedule your visit online anytime.

Photo credit: Canva.com / Antonio_Diaz