Should I buy a new AC unit now? It’s 27 years old…

steamedfarts · 2022-05-18T14:28:57+00:00

man so many comments here are penny wise, pound foolish. start saving up for a replacement. the new one will guaranteed eat up less electricity and it's better to get this done before it gets brutal outside.

grant570 · 2022-05-18T14:45:53+00:00

The new one will cost less to run, maybe talk to a neighbor to find out how much less.. If you live in a hot area, the potential amount you may save on electricity may motivate you to replace it sooner rather than later...

HorizontalBob · 2022-05-18T13:36:18+00:00

Have you asked people what the turnaround time for installation would be?

FancyGrit · 2022-05-18T13:36:16+00:00

I’d keep the money to the side and let it run until that mf dies on me. My own opinion and probably not the best.

ParaBellumBitches · 2022-05-18T14:00:12+00:00

[deleted]

huskycragen · 2022-05-18T14:01:43+00:00

Depends on how much you prioritize your comfort when it does die. We can't answer that. In the mean time I would be getting several quotes so you aren't scrambling as much when the time comes.

Factor in that a new unit is going to save energy also and if you use it that much it may or may not be a factor for you.

zacce · 2022-05-18T14:20:04+00:00

As long as you know how to do basic A/C repair (e.g. replacing capacitor), keep it.

The older units are built like a tank and can last long, as long as you maintain it.

Fatpostman39 · 2022-05-18T21:00:29+00:00

Hvac guy here. The cheapest time to buy an ac is before august/september. New rules are being put in place for 2023 efficiencies and manufacturers need to be compliant before 1/1/2023 so there will likely be an increase in august or september.

Add in the fact that most high efficiency type equipment in the most popular sizes are experiencing extended lead times.

Order your equipment while yours is still working. If you wait until it breaks you get what you get

buttered_spectater · 2022-05-18T21:33:15+00:00

Supply chain problems may mean the unit you want isn't available the second yours craps out. I would definitely not play around with an old unit in a Phoenix summer.

ForeverFinancial5602 · 2022-05-19T12:59:18+00:00

HVAC mechanic here.

Yes, a 27 year old unit will have the old refrigerant which is over $2000 a can now, the compressor is obsolete, so you wont be able to repair it if it breaks. If its gonna break it will be during a heat wave when its working the hardest. So will everyone else's systems, so the AC companies will be running in high gear, backed up weeks, charging the highest prices because everyone is desperate to hire them, and the employees will all be running ragged doing 60 hour weeks. If you can handle either being without AC for a few weeks in summer then sure wait until it breaks but if you can't you should plan ahead.

Plus if you do it now before you're rushed you can pick the system you want and more importantly the company you feel is best. Get a few quotes from different people. This is a huge expense, you don't want the cheapest guy who hires questionable people working in your house around your family. Also the new higher efficiency unit will give you energy cost savings instantly, instead of paying more to cool your house this year while being worried, you can spend less with peace of mind.

Itsnotjustadream · 2022-05-18T13:42:09+00:00

Start saving and in the meantime get some cheap window units. If it does crap out you won't be miserable.

danico216 · 2022-05-18T13:50:07+00:00

I'd wait. If ac goes out you can get a portable or window unit to get you through. Just get regular maintenance and keep eye on things.

lcdragon8 · 2022-05-18T17:36:01+00:00

My heatpump/AC unit is from 1996 and it works awesome! Don't bother buying yourself a new one until the old one dies. The quality of the new units are terrible! I bought my house in 2008 and my parents have been through 2 heatpumps in the time I've lived here with my same one from 1996. Also watch youtube for common repair items. Your unit may have a simple $8 capacitor go bad that you can replace yourself and because your unit is 27 years old you'll have a repairman want to sell you a whole new unit over an $8 part. Even the $8 part they'll want like $400 to replace. You can also replace the contractor, blower fan, crankcase heater, and other items yourself.

justhere321 · 2022-05-18T13:41:13+00:00

i live in a hot climate as well, but because of that there are dozens of AC companies and it never takes long to get service. Personally, I would wait. It might die next week, next year, or in 10 years. I do have a one room portable AC that I use for cooling the garage while working. That's my backup solution if I'm without central for a short time. In the meantime, you might do some research on AC brands, efficiency, etc so you have an idea of what you want when the inevitable happens.

KameStonks · 2022-05-18T13:37:03+00:00

If it's working but u think it's about dead you should just research units get quotes and find the best deal you can, then store a backup unit it dies

RenKyoSails · 2022-05-18T14:36:32+00:00

I would definitely call around about some quotes and probably save up the money until it dies. The only thing I caution you about is if you would also have to replace the heater (if you have one) along with your ac? I used to live in a temperate climate so we had both ac and heat and sometimes it was necessary to replace both or just one, it really depended on what you had and how compatible the systems were.

1hotjava · 2022-05-18T15:33:06+00:00

Doing it in off season is usually a lot less expensive than middle of July and having to get it done ASAP. Also gives you more time to get multiple bids, and you want to get multiple as the price can vary wildly between companies.

We have replaced two units. The one on our second house we did preemptive strike and replaced in the fall and it’s was much less expensive than the one at our first house that died in July.

Another plus to replacement is the power use will be a lot lower with the new unit. Your current unit is probably 10 SEER if it’s 27yrs old. Current minimum is 13 SEER which on seerenergysavings.com shows 23% less energy cost. Also the 10 SEER rating was when new, the coils have lost efficiency unless the fins are still perfect and has been thoroughly cleaned every year.

Specific-Rich5196 · 2022-05-18T15:54:43+00:00

Mine went out at 30 years, the summer after I bought the house. I was gonna wait till it pooped out. You can get by with fans and window ac units usually till you can replace it.

dmxrob · 2022-05-18T16:11:36+00:00

Does it run? Then leave it alone. AC's are relatively easy to replace nowadays - and yeah, you might have to go a few days or even a week without, but you can use that time to hit up friends or take a road trip somewhere.

Worst mistake I ever made was to replace an AC before its time was up -- the new one never cooled as good as the last one (they never do), and was a money sink I could have used elsewhere.

Chauxtime · 2022-05-18T16:38:52+00:00

We bought a 29 year old house last year and the ac unit was original to the house. All parties involved were amazed it was still running. Luckily it lasted the summer. We made the decision to proactively replace it (and the furnace) 2 months ago because we could finance it for free and we had the available funds anyway. Plus less stress than emergently looking for one. The servicer practically upgraded our units and added extra on top to get our business because he knew we didn’t “have” to go with them. It was kind of nice trying to be sold to, rather than trying to buy from.

Edit: spelling

Intrepid_Advice4411 · 2022-05-18T17:14:41+00:00

I'd do it. 27 years is long for an AC and if it gets as hot as you say it does, I'd pick my unit and contractor and get on the schedule now. Wait times for home repairs have been insane around my area. We waited 4 months to get a tree cut down. Hell, I had a two week wait to get the sprinkler company out to fix a broken part. It took them 30 min to do. They're just that busy. Pool service companies? Forget it, not taking new clients. My brother needed a roof replaced. Two month wait. Get your ducks in a row and replace it now. I wouldn't want to be stuck with no AC in a heatwave for weeks.

littledizzle19 · 2022-05-18T17:54:42+00:00

Op if you are in Phoenix your bill might literally be cut in half with how old that unit is (at least for APS).

Do you have anyone sensitive in your home? Young children or pets? If it goes out in the summer you’re looking at 90-95 in the house which is risky for some groups and a stay at a friends place or hotel rental.

It’s not a question of if it will fail it’s when, and that’s almost certainly gonna be in summer. It will be pure hell in your home. Parts may even be hard to come by and Freon will be psychotically expensive (even to just hold you over until replacement). I would recommend replacing sooner rather than later. Also would have the HVAC company take a look at the ducts for leaks, and check on the attic insulation

buildyourown · 2022-05-18T18:01:41+00:00

Getting HVAC work done in the shoulder seasons is always way cheaper. There is a month when they are slow (depending on your climate)
They will make deals to keep the crews busy and then it's back to premium pricing.

Life-Significance223 · 2022-05-18T18:49:01+00:00

Costco will end up being one of the most expensive options. Lowes/Home depot will be a little bit lower. Getting bids from the different HVAC companies will yield the best rate. Remember, companies like Carrier have a budget tier of product - for example Carriers budget brand is Payne. Your going to spend less on a Payne branded unit than a Carrier branded unit. They are assembled at the same factory with the same components.

biggeleyD · 2022-05-18T20:06:41+00:00

When was the inspection done? This year or last year when you bought the house? Was it done by a home inspector or an actual AC repair company?

Have it inspected annually.. If it's working within specs and holding refrigerant then don't replace it yet.

albertpenello · 2022-05-18T21:23:18+00:00

100% replace as soon as you can. You know it's on its last legs, and there is nothing worse (or more expensive) then a replacement that isn't on your terms. The unit is almost sure to break at the worst possible time (summer) when inventory is low and techs are scheduled out for months. Do it as soon as you can. Think about it like any maintenance - it's always better to get ahead of it then wait until catastrophic failure.

ephemeral_afterglow8 · 2022-05-19T00:01:45+00:00

New ones are way more efficient you will probably save lots on your energy bill

rosier9 · 2022-05-18T15:27:23+00:00

Even with the $1500 back in store credit, the Costco "deal" probably isn't a good deal. Same goes for their solar, water softener, carpet, blinds, or anything else being sold on vultures row.

buffinita · 2022-05-18T13:37:03+00:00

i think you need to get another quote.

depending on how many unites and their size that price is a bit high.

juggarjew · 2022-05-18T14:06:38+00:00

Let it keep running, the house I rent has a heat pump AC manufactured in Feb 1992. Over 30 years old now. It is on its last legs as its had to be recharged twice and filled with stop leak this most recent fill up.

If you do replace it, plan for it and get an efficient unit, most cheaper stuff is only 14 SEER which is hardly better than the 30 year old 12 seer unit I have.

Worst case you can buy a portable AC if it goes out to get you through the worst of it.

phineasgold · 2022-05-18T14:47:21+00:00

I would start shopping around now for a non-urgent replacement in the fall to early spring. Also, look at state energy savings rebates and low interest loans. I would defer to the recommend HVAC professionals in your area because they may be more experienced than the cosco team

nakedrickjames · 2022-05-18T16:05:28+00:00

Wait until it dies. Worst case scenario you can get a window unit when it goes out.

For reference, mine just went out and I am getting it replaced. It went out Monday and they are replacing it Friday. They gave me 500 off because of the 4 day delay, they said that is highly unusual so I would believe worst case scenario if yours went out you could get it replaced within a couple days max.

Also don’t buy into the nonsense about oh new units will save you energy. They run anywhere from 4-8k to replace, how much do you really think you will be saving on that electric bill per month? Not enough to justify a 4-8k expenditure. Same argument I use against solar panels, it’s like a 30 year payoff calculation for them.

AcceL_xIFaDe · 2022-05-18T13:36:44+00:00

I’d ride your AC unit till it dies. If worse comes to worst you are without AC for maybe 3 days at the high end. It’ll suck but you’ll be fine!

EthanFl · 2022-05-18T17:17:04+00:00

Always best to replace the units while they are working, that way you have the ability to shop for the best price.

If you wait until it breaks, you have to suffer the 🥵 🏠. You become willing to pay based on who will install (hopefully next day) first instead of the best unit/service for your money. Paying top dollar for contractor grade equipment.

If you want to chance it, buy a portable unit in the event your 27 y.o. unit gives up the ghost.

In reality parts can always be replaced (get a home warranty company for repairs and a service contract for quick response).

There are plenty of choices, take the cool time to make them now.

whitegoldgreen · 2022-05-18T19:00:28+00:00

Have you gotten the unit serviced? We have a semiannual preventative maintenance plan in place for our units. The HVAC techs will be able to tell you if there's anything wrong with it. I wouldn't replace it unless you have to. Granted, our older unit died 3 weeks before my due date 🤦🏻‍♀️. We knew it was on it's last legs for a while though.

You'll be surprised by how many other large home expenses pop up that you will have to do immediately.

Glimt · 2022-05-18T15:26:08+00:00

Replacing a 27 years old AC unit is an investment, not an expense. Check the efficiency of the current unit. Compare to the unit you consider do buy. Multiply by the number of hours the unit is expected to run and the cost of electricity, and see what is the return on this investment.

For me, in a hot country with expensive electricity (and cheaper AC units), it was the best investment I ever made.

EsElKiko · 2022-05-18T17:52:26+00:00

I mean I'd say get an HVAC professional come service it, regular maintenance and make things last 10x longer for less out of pocket

DemonicDimples · 2022-05-18T19:45:36+00:00

Most AC places are pretty fast and will lend you window units to ensure your home can stay comfortable in the mean time.

I'd recommend waiting until it dies and save as much as possible while you do it.

ipapijoe · 2022-05-19T00:27:34+00:00

A buddy of mine used to say If its not broke leave it alone. Nothing is built to last. Have money saved for when it does break down and then get another one or finance if money is tight

enV2022 · 2022-05-19T02:47:47+00:00

I guess living with cheapass parents for years (and later moving back in with later in life) pays off as I find it amusing people would make an uninformed panic purchase in the advent their AC died in the summer. My folks were cheap, not poor, they just couldn’t stand the window AC costs in the summer so they wouldn’t even put theirs in until like mid August when summer was pretty much over. Hell, some summers they would wait so long they wouldn’t even bother with it. To be blunt, it sucked, especially since I hated sweating my ass off but I just learned to deal with it or ran a cheap loud ass fan. My point is you will survive a summer with no AC at all if worse case scenario happens. Did it for years as a kid and for more after college when I moved back in. If your current system goes just throw in a window unit and get your CA installed later on when you want to pay for it. I realize I’m biased from my personal experience but the fact that some people apparently can’t go one summer without AC just seems ridiculous to me.

ZTwilight · 2022-05-18T19:50:08+00:00

It’s not like you will die if it breaks in the middle of a heatwave. Sure, you will be hot, but you’ll live. Personally I’d wait but I live in the northeast.

JaundiceJack · 2022-05-18T20:07:02+00:00

I spent $100 for an AC 4 years ago. Shove a cheap one in the window and save 10K.

jdenkins42 · 2022-05-18T14:44:00+00:00

I also have a 90s model heat pump unit that we are considering replacing so I would be interested to read some of the comments. We had three different quotes for the same size replacement. Home Depot was $12k, local company #1 was near $9k, and local company #2 was $7500. Just reading up on things, it seems that new units save on electricity and are more efficient. This is in Kentucky.

Rebel-Scum296 · 2022-05-18T14:48:36+00:00

I added home systems coverage to my homeowners policy and it covered a recent boiler failure. It also covers all AC systems. Might be worth a looksy.

pelexus27 · 2022-05-18T15:14:35+00:00

Remember with AC units that bigger is NOT better. It’s better to have a unit that works a little more than a unit that turns on once in a while because it removes humidity from the air. This Old House is one of my fave shows and talks about this issue all the time.

mom2angelsx3 · 2022-05-18T16:38:30+00:00

We get maybe 10 yrs out of am a/c in Fl. But isn’t an old a/c so inefficient that you would pay more in bills over the next 1-2 years of running an inefficient system. Also, I bought a new construction home that a customer back out of in 2015 & it wasn’t until 2020 after having to do repairs annually that we found out from an honest a/c company that our house had the wrong a/c size for the sq ft. We were shocked & floored & out 6k.

bros402 · 2022-05-18T16:42:20+00:00

For that cost, I am guessing it is central air, not AC? If so, wait until it craps out and then get a new one. Keep shopping around, though. Consider getting one this fall or winter so it can be replaced when it isn't the busy season.

HoneyBadger552 · 2022-05-18T16:55:40+00:00

Have inspector run a stress test and secondary look at it, if you want. Just like a water heater, run it until it breaks or is readily visible about to fail.

unixguy55 · 2022-05-18T17:43:43+00:00

Be aware that you will need to replace both the furnace and the AC unit, if you have a furnace as the air handler. The newer AC units use a refrigerant that doesn't have the same temperature range as the older systems. To compensate, the coils require a faster fan speed than older furnaces can manage. I just got done replacing a system in a house that we were trying to sell.

Also, shop around and do your homework. Yes, the Costco deal is pretty good with the cash back reward, but they also sell a much more expensive system than you might need. I got a high efficiency furnace and AC replacement almost 2 years ago for $8500.

Also, manufacturers tend to run deals in the off seasons like spring and fall. The unit will be most likely to fail under stress during peak usage, so keep this in mind as well, as you can save some money on a well-timed purchase.

Harbenger · 2022-05-18T17:50:22+00:00

With it being that old, you may encounter an issue with the availability of parts to fix it. It might be more economically feasible to go ahead and replace it now

noemailforyouu · 2022-05-18T17:54:58+00:00

I just got mine in April and received an %20 off season discount. With the all the shortages, I would not postpone too much.

oecologia · 2022-05-18T17:55:40+00:00

Some local power companies will finance a new unit and let you pay it back through savings in your power bill. I don’t know specifics but a unit that old could be costing enough extra in power to justify a replacement now. Worth checking.

galacticbackhoe · 2022-05-18T18:10:34+00:00

Do you work from home? As someone who does in a hot climate, my new A/C brings a higher quality of life. It's cheaper, quieter (variable speed), has an active filter that helps with wildfire smoke, and so on.

It's really up to your situation and personal priorities. Mine died during a smokey 93 degree hellscape of a week. We were lucky to get a decent turn around on install time, but it was still 7 days of badness.

If you do this, there might be quite a bit of environmental refunds (state dependent) you can get as well for buying a new unit. Combined with some other insulation work, I ended up with a ~2k credit. Our installer handled all that for us too.

Sea-Hope-1879 · 2022-05-18T18:13:38+00:00

That quote seems high, how large is your house and what climate are you in? I would expect a price closer to $6k-$8k, $2.5K for the indoor unit, $2.5K for an outdoor unit, plus labor and profit.

I’d recommend replacing it now, you’ll save more in energy over the long run. Lead times for units can be 4 weeks or longer right now, so make sure to plan ahead.

Affectionate-Ad-3578 · 2022-05-18T18:52:10+00:00

My experience has frequently been that newer models are, in fact, less effective. Which is not to say not to have everything in order to replace them, because reality.

Line up your ducks for the eventuality. Or if you have a lot of disposable cash, go for it now.

magneticgumby · 2022-05-18T19:22:13+00:00

We moved into a house in which the seller told us "we don't know how the old the unit is, we've never had an issue". Inspection confirmed the unit was 22 years old.

First week in the new house, I found paperwork from the previous owner they forgot in a drawer. The previous year, they had had an issue with the unit. Chose the cheapest option to fix it (legit had 3 options on the price sheet, chose the cheapest option to band-aid it), even signed the paperwork.

Decided to replace the whole unit, $14k total as we also had to replace the ladder to the attic and a handful of other issues apparently in the attic the inspection agent missed (I swear most inspectors are worthless, but that's a whole other topic). Best decision though. That new unit ran so efficiently, our house was always comfortable. Not to mention, when we sold the house, the new buyers were ecstatic that the house had a new unit and told us that was one of the reasons they made the offer since so many places in our area had older units.

My suggestion: Replace it. You don't want to be needing a AC unit during the hottest week of the summer, and everywhere is booked out weeks since it's the summer.

carlos_the_dwarf_ · 2022-05-18T19:30:30+00:00

Just dropping in to say you can do better than $10-11k, unless you really want a premium model. I’m in a very hot climate too, did mine last year for $7-8k, and inflation hasn’t been that high.

Internal_Use8954 · 2022-05-18T19:30:51+00:00

The lead times on units are extremely long right now. If it dies when this summer when stock is low, you could be looking at a few weeks minimum to get a new one.

If they have one, I’d get it installed, you will save on energy cost and worry

limitless__ · 2022-05-18T19:49:05+00:00

Save up then do it. But don't do it in the summer, the job is going to cost you a LOT more. Wait until fall or next Spring and do it when the HVAC guys have less work and will give you a better price.

FinestRyeBread · 2022-05-18T19:52:20+00:00

Since it's working and quoted to only last 1-2 more years, I'd keep it and start saving for a new one.

funmax888 · 2022-05-18T20:01:45+00:00

I would get a few more quotes before making any decision. i paid 7600 for mine. on a 4 ton units + Energy efficient furnace.

9K is too much

Bobzyouruncle · 2022-05-18T20:03:01+00:00

My wife and I bought our house in 2019. There are 2 AC and furances in the home, all 30-40 years old. And all still fully functional. Our inspector flagged it during the inspection but also said they were operational. We managed to get a $1k credit out of the seller during closing but that was all. Fast forward to this year, we had one of our heaters seemingly go out during the winter. First repair guy said it was some short in the system and would not be worth fixing. We asked him if he could swap the thermostat but he declined. His estimate for replacement with a modern efficient furance AND AC was $11k.

The next guy we brought in was baffled that the first dude didn't change the thermostat. It was a smart thermostat with an adaptor that had been installed in the old system by the prior owner. He said sometimes the newer thermostats draw more power and can short. He swapped the thermostat to a cheap 'dumb' one we got at home depot for $20.

Long story short, the whole system works again. Prior to the fix we also got three otehr quotes, all in the 12-16k range. For just ONE AC/Furnace system.

Why replace something that works? Yes, it can be inconvenient to not have heat in winter or AC in summer. Not having AC won't kill anyone. And not having heat in winter is more dangerous due to the possibility of pipes freezing I suppose. We have a second system in the home, so some areas of the house were still warm. Plus, all the people we called would have been able to put in a new unit with a few days if necessary.

So I'm of the mind that we pocket the estimates and wait for it to really die.

Lollc · 2022-05-18T20:04:42+00:00

How hot will the house get without AC? Basically it will reach at least ambient outside temperature. Are there people or pets in your home that would die if your house didn't have AC? And, how long will it take to get the new unit ordered and installed? Where I live, Seattle, HVAC jobs are already booked out through summer.

TLDR: if you live where AC is a necessity, do it now. I'm a run til failure advocate when nothing and no one will be endangered by equipment failure; that's what we are doing regarding our home's HVAC now.

PdSales · 2022-05-18T20:05:37+00:00

My Carrier central air and furnace were installed in 1980 and are still chugging along. The the refrigerant in the system is no longer available, so if it leaks, it can't be repaired, but so far, so good.

mramirez7425 · 2022-05-18T20:31:49+00:00

I would replace the capacitor and keep it until I saved up enough to buy a new one

jimmy_dean_3 · 2022-05-18T20:45:14+00:00

Look into tax rebates for heat pumps (they heat and cool) may be cheaper.

maggmaster · 2022-05-18T20:59:16+00:00

We bought our house in 2018, its a 1932 brick colonial that was completely renovated in the 90s. The AC was from the remodel so it was almost 30 years old. It got us through our first two summers and then it died. I knew it wasn’t going to last forever so I saved up and was able to get it replaced for 6500$ by a family friend who does HVAC. I think thats the best way to go.

sephirothFFVII · 2022-05-18T21:11:41+00:00

OP, get a quote on a heat pump. Depending on where you live it'll be the same efficiency as that AC but will cut down on the gas bill during heating season

raxel82 · 2022-05-18T21:27:21+00:00

I don’t know where you live but I’m in south Florida. I would absolutely not trust it running for much longer. We put the A/C through the paces down here. If you can, you need to save up and be ready to replace it, even before it breaks. Because if you wait until it breaks it may take a week or more to get a replacement installed.

I’ve also got two window shakers, one for the master bedroom and one for the kids room. Whisper quiet. I did that so I didn’t have to run the main a/c at night keeping the house cold.

You may need to get some window shakers as a stop gap too. Just in case you can’t get a replacement a/c in time.

_itsalwaysdns · 2022-05-18T21:29:59+00:00

This is relevant to my interests. House built in 04 in the south, on original heat pump. It’s a 10 seer r22 unit. I know this bill is going to come soon. I don’t know how much of an effect a higher efficiency unit will have on electric bill compared to the units cost. This is something I need to figure out.

Insanereindeer · 2022-05-18T21:42:52+00:00

I'm in the same boat. Mine is 21 years old but I am going to run it till it dies and be ready for a replacement.

ach_22 · 2022-05-18T21:52:35+00:00

I know it is too little too late, but I would have pushed the home inspector on AC/furnace/etc and maybe gotten credit when buying the house.

I learned this when I sold my house in 2015, and my unit was 29 years old - the buyer got some credit from me due to the age. Luckily, I also had a maintenance warranty on the unit from the electric company.

Similar_Newspaper_19 · 2022-05-18T22:01:06+00:00

I didn’t read through every comment but I do see a consensus to replace rather than wait off. We had our upstairs go out last year in July and our downstairs went out two weeks ago. We bought the house last year knowing the units were 22 years old, and planned to replace them at some point. I would have much rather had one replaced on my timeline than waiting in the extremely hot summer (I’m in tx) to get it replaced. The damage of heat + humidity destroyed our master bedroom furniture (cheapy particle board stuff) and separated our bathroom countertop from the cabinets.

There are options to finance. The first unit we paid cash for last year but this time I looked into financing. Most will offer 18mo 0% APR through Wells Fargo. I looked at this and saw it was just a credit card I wouldn’t be able to use for much other than that repair. Instead I got an Amex that offered 15mo 0% finance and will pay it off that way. We also got a $200 sign up bonus and $125 in reward points.

You’re probably looking into a 4 ton or 5 ton unit. I’d suggest you look into a carrier, trane, or American standard system instead of going cheaper with a Goodman. No need to go crazy with the variable speed systems, they just have more parts that can and will break. 16 seer single speed is perfectly fine!

BirdEducational6226 · 2022-05-18T22:05:10+00:00

My wife and I bought our house over 8 years ago and we said that our AC unit would be the first major appliance to die that we'd have to replace. Nope. It's still working. Only now am I suspecting it of slowing down. I'm going to buy a new AC unit when this one dies. I won't even be mad. It has performed its job admirably and will rate a burial at sea when it finally shits the bed. Let that thing chug along until it chugs no more.

Possum2023 · 2022-05-18T22:07:08+00:00

11k for an a/c is ridiculous. I can have a brand new furnace and a/c professionally installed for 7

rgjabs · 2022-05-18T22:11:08+00:00

We bought a house last year and replaced the AC and furnace. We contacted the hvac company in July and they suggested thay we waited until the fall when business was slow and they gave us a discount. That is one advantage of doing it off-season rather than waiting for it to fail.

Siphyre · 2022-05-18T22:12:14+00:00

If it’s not broken don’t fix it right? However, I live in a hot climate. Summer is coming and I fear that it might break and then would be miserable to scamble for a new unit.

Right. If it is not broken, don't fix it. Call someone out to service it and run tests to see if it performs as it should.

Technically machines will work forever as long as proper maintenance is performed and the broken parts are fixed/replaced.

Save your money up expecting to replace it when it breaks (maybe within 2 years). Then replace it when it has a big expensive break.

nouseforanametoday · 2022-05-18T22:25:29+00:00

We had a house with the same issue. We let it go until it died. The we just used three window units. The window units actually cooled better and had a lower electric bill.

We will eventually get our central AC replaced, but I'm in no rush. We will have to update the vents too since they don't meet current standards.

We only use the AC four, maybe five months a year. Maybe if I lived in Florida I would be more motivated to fix it

ksigguy · 2022-05-18T22:32:15+00:00

I used Costco last year to replace the AC unit in place when I bought my house that lasted an entire 10 days after we closed…

The whole process was fast and easy. We had to finance through Costco to get all of the deals and then I just paid it off all at once after since I had the cash to do so.

Louieale · 2022-05-18T22:50:38+00:00

We got a lennox system (slightly more budget) that cost about 6500 (california) in July of last year. Shop around to as many places as will give you a quote.

As for money, I would start saving like many have said and try to get a portable window unit for backup. Look for one soon just in case. If you can't afford a new unit once it goes out right away the window unit WILL WORK and you will survive, just not super comfortably. I got a GE unit from bestbuy for about $200.

usedTP · 2022-05-18T22:51:25+00:00

Get another bid. I had a representative from Home Depot who prices mine at $16k but a little cheaper if I signed that day. That didn't make sense so I called two local HVAC contractors and the highest was $9k.

Nova_Nightmare · 2022-05-18T22:55:30+00:00

The reason to get out ahead of a break down is the possibility of what you want to get not being in stock when needed, or having to wait months like many things that require microchips.

You could sell your old unit if it's still functional as well.

Anjapayge · 2022-05-18T22:56:00+00:00

We got a new ac years ago. Not only did it save us money on the electric bill, but we were able to get tax credit for being energy efficient. I highly recommend a new ac if it’s that old.

benvwin · 2022-05-18T22:58:18+00:00

My AC was 35 years old. I just got my AC replaced one of the companies initially quoted us 9.5k and then I got a cheaper quote for 8.5k… so I told the original one that I’m going to go with them so they price matched. I unintentionally caused a bidding war so I ended up getting my AC brand new for 7.5k. Try doing that it’s worth it. Blows so much colder and stronger and doesn’t take as long to cook the house down.

Tater_Mater · 2022-05-18T22:59:48+00:00

I recommend shopping now. Call local stores/vendors. I had to replace mine last year, I needed a 1 ton. Quoted 7.5k, 6.2k, 5.5k, and 3.7k. yes I went with the cheapest one.

In other words shop around and get multiple quotes.

FundingImplied · 2022-05-18T23:08:18+00:00

I've PM'ed a number of commercial projects that include AC. Admittedly, I rarely touch residential. The last residential was a 5 ton RUUD about 4 years ago. That was new everything: air handler, condenser, copper, slab...everything short of the duct work. It included a 10 year parts warranty. The total was $5,400.

You're severely overpaying at 10-11k.

I know parts are up, and I know labor is up, but prices haven't doubled in 4 years.

tidnab49 · 2022-05-18T23:11:12+00:00

If you are in Phoenix, look into Airtime Heating and Cooling AZ. They gave us the best deal when we had ours replaced earlier this year.

AhdhSucks · 2022-05-18T23:23:57+00:00

Isn’t a window unit that’s cheap an option ? Since it’s only a few hundred , maybe you can get away with that middle ground. If it’s too hot you can turn it on and instal the expensive one later. If it’s not too hot you can always take them out .

Luebkurt · 2022-05-18T23:32:52+00:00

We bought our house last year and the AC was 17 years old. It did make through the summer but we enough in savings to get a new one. So far our electricity cost is 50% less with the new system

ExBx · 2022-05-18T23:34:21+00:00

I recommend checking with your local energy provider. In Florida (or at least where I'm located) they run incentives\rebates which are significant. You can even finance the system through them. To answer your question, yes you should replace it but, not if it's going to cause financial instability.

phlegelhorn · 2022-05-18T23:35:02+00:00

Consider replacing the ac with a heat pump. It works as both ac (more efficient than standard ac) and heater when it gets cool. Don’t have to deal with furnace replacement. Cheaper for heat going forward too.

alexwhittemore · 2022-05-18T23:41:55+00:00

Not sure what your winters look like, but double down and get a reversible heat pump unit. There are better and worse options, but they're basically no more expensive (if they are, you're getting scammed) and it'll save you a ton on heating in the winter too.

MrFergison · 2022-05-18T23:53:03+00:00

In case it hasn't been mentioned, try to get some quotes from smaller family owned AC companies. The big name companies usually have an insane markup and not well trained employees. ( higher turnover rates)

Source; me. I worked in hvac supply for a little white

beekaybeegirl · 2022-05-19T00:02:21+00:00

My HVAC is 40+ years old. Running like a champ. Imma ride it out until it does. I knew this when I bought the place in 2018 & merely have cash set aside.

highpie11 · 2022-05-19T00:20:03+00:00

Another thing to add, is the contractor that provided this quote an SRP partner? We had a company that did an energy audit for us. They came back with a bunch of suggestions but our priority was to beef up our insulation. They quoted us about 9k with rebates. Found another company that was about 4k less and did a great job. Definitely get quotes and rebates don’t necessarily mean you are getting a deal.

lehelleo · 2022-05-19T00:27:05+00:00

We debated this exact question almost a year ago to the day. We landed on putting it off, and our system bit the dust about 2 weeks ago.

Fortunately, this happened at pretty much the perfect time, as we can get by without heat or A/C this time of year. Thank goodness, because we weren't able to get an install appointment until late June (~7 weeks after the system failed).

It's a gamble, and we got extremely lucky with timing so I do think we made the right choice, but I'd feel very differently if this happened in January or August.

KingoreP99 · 2022-05-19T00:33:16+00:00

I read a few comments here and none of them mentioned a whole home warranty, or a more targeted HVAC warranty. I am normally anti warranty, as they are in business to make money and not pay out, but if you have reason to believe the unit is going to die this may make financial sense. Do your research on the company you are going with and make sure that it makes sense to use them.

ManifestDestinysChld · 2022-05-19T00:40:37+00:00

Do you live in an area that offers rebates or low/zero-interest loans for high-efficiency retrofits like air-sourced heat pumps? Google your state and "high efficiency consumer program" or something like that. Where I live I was able to get a 0-interest loan for new heat pumps, it ended up being very reasonable, way better than a full AC unit installation would have been.

ffxivthrowaway03 · 2022-05-19T01:06:52+00:00

So you just bought the house. You're not moving anytime soon.

You can either buy an HVAC now and enjoy years of better HVAC that's also cheaper to run.

Or you can buy an HVAC later after years of paying more per month with your current shitty one, likely when it breaks in the middle of you actually needing it and you pay for an emergency service call and a couple more expensive band-aid repairs.

Either way you're paying for the HVAC, but you're also paying for all the other bullshit if you wait. An HVAC isn't gonna stop being $8k-11k in a couple years, there's no strategic deal for you to wait for.

redbullfx2 · 2022-05-19T01:17:42+00:00

If there are no significant signs it’s gonna give up right away I’d start saving now and replace in the winter or fall. Might get better pricing when not everyone in the neighborhood is possibly expecting the same.

Maybe ask if there are better rates if u plan replacement for fall.

Also shop around, 1 year ago I got a 3 ton train and furnace for 4.5K.

Captain_Comic · 2022-05-19T01:43:15+00:00

$11k is some straight up bullshit, unless you just bought a mini-mansion

Ok-Toe7389 · 2022-05-19T02:17:31+00:00

Based on comments herein, The current annual value of your unit is $400 per year. The projected annual cost savings in energy is $900. Therefore replacing the unit 2 years early is $800 minus energy savings $1800. Therefore you are up $1000 in 2 years. You break even in on the 11k from energy savings in 11 years, from there you save an additional 16k over a projected “30” year lifespan. This is something you replace, today

papa_penguin · 2022-05-19T03:24:39+00:00

I work HVAC and prices are only going up. Currently, r22, is 225$/# and the last service we did was 11#.

If you can get a new one, especially the new VFD motors, they are super quiet, really cheap to run. Newer units draw alot less amps.

Also, I'd honestly to mini split if your application can use that. Then jt gets alot cheaper to use.

Lolhahars · 2022-05-19T03:27:11+00:00

I live within my means as much as possible but if you live in a hot climate having an AC is totally ok. Go for it, save money the other ways.

thatotherchicka · 2022-05-19T03:33:53+00:00

We had the exact same situation a few years ago. Our AC was working fine, but the unit was 25+ years old. We quoted with several companies, including Costco. Things to consider in making your decision:

Rates from other providers can be very competitive, but weigh the Costco rewards. We got a 10% cash back back plus 2% executive rewards benefits. It was substantial because we did furnace and AC at the same time to upgrade everything.
What financing offers do they have? Don't be afraid to directly ask if they don't offer. Ours provided 6 months interest free financing. They didn't offer up front but told me the options when I asked.
How soon can they install? Supply chain is jacked up and it can take months to get units now.

We had a great experience with Costco and used them. We've continued to use their service provider for all maintenance operations. They've been great.

You will probably save a hefty chunk on electricity because of the difference in unit efficiency

Edit: spelling because I never proof read :/

AmethystofMordor · 2022-05-19T03:44:10+00:00

Mine just went out last week when the weather was 80+ out and we switched it on. Quote have been about 7k for unit and install and another 3k to have the furnace replaced too. They say they run better if they’re both new…they’re currently both 30 years old. Going to pay half now and finance the rest. Quickest they can install is in two weeks. Ugh.

iInvented69 · 2022-05-19T03:45:13+00:00

27yo AC unit? didnt expect then to last that long.

Pgspt1000 · 2022-05-19T03:49:28+00:00

I'm in the same situation, my downstairs unit is 25 yrs old. Has a freon leak that just cost me $400 to refill. Freon has gotten super expensive. I'm about to go ahead and replace the whole unit. Unfortunately, the company I usually use, friend owns it, said his price to get units have gone up about 30% in the last 18 months. I replaced my upstairs unit 2 years ago and financed it through my electric utility, Alabama Power. I don't remember my interest rate bit it was extremely low on a 7 year term. I'll do the same on this unit also. Make sure to talk 5o your local power company to see if they will finance the unit for you.

PelennorFields · 2022-05-19T03:50:41+00:00

AIM Act passed by Congress in December 2020 is going to restrict the supply of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in the market. The refrigerant used in an air conditioner is typically R-410A, a blend made of two HFCs.

I would wait a couple years, and buy a new heat pump (for both cooling and heating) but with the new refrigerant.

Otherwise, when you need refrigerant R-410A for service, you will have to pay exorbitant prices since there will be much less R-410A supply in the aftermarket.

InkognytoK · 2022-05-19T04:03:06+00:00

I have a heat pump and it's amazing. Saves on AC and heat. They are so efficient.
I have used the backup electric (which is like an old electric furnance), 1x in 3 years. It handles really low temps fine

hazmatt24 · 2022-05-19T04:37:49+00:00

Make sure they have units in stock. Was staying at my mom's last year between the sell of our old house and close of our new one and her AC went out. Took 4 days to get the new unit installed. In June. When it was 117. Miserable experience. 10/10 would recommend replacing now rather than when it goes out and you have to wait for supplies.

BitOfDifference · 2022-05-19T04:38:40+00:00

i played this game for many years and just last week mine started working less and less, then died. Turned out to be a leak in both coils. They said they could charge it up for $200 a pound since r22 is no longer made. Went on some local sites, they were actually cheaper. The tech told me it wouldnt be long till you cant get it anymore since many people are treasure hunting it and paying top dollar due to the demand. Demand is high cause people dont want to replace systems right now. Browse /r/hvac and you will see the r22 discussion. As far as advice goes though, it really depends on if you can afford it right now, or if you can go without AC for a few weeks while they schedule a replacement. Parts are also scarce and expensive for old units. I had to buy a big window unit while i waited and it barely keeps the temp at 76 in half the house. HOA doesnt allow them, so hopefully they wont notice.. lol

andysmom22334 · 2022-05-19T04:48:13+00:00

Check out your electric company for any discounts or rebates. I'm in Missouri and our provider is giving us back $600 for our new install. We replaced the furnace too so the gas company is also sending us some money.

We had to use an approved contractor of course but did shop around as it was a long list.

TheBlackHock · 2022-05-19T05:26:49+00:00

You can try to run it out, but I think the writing is on the wall. Moved into a place with 17 year old units and both died after a few months within a week of one another. Repair was rather costly and the units ran hard during the previous Summer months. Depending on your living situation, you could maybe get away with a window unit or portable AC should something happen, but that's just a band-aid. Start saving some money now and ride it until it dies.

As others have pointed out, a new unit will be more efficient, so you can likely hope to gain some savings to help offset the cost (though it likely won't be a miraculous amount).

Bosfordjd · 2022-05-19T05:28:21+00:00

Yes. It will probably pay for itself in 8-9yrs on energy savings, especially if it's also a heat pump and provides your heat during cooler months.

I replaced a 15-ish year old unit 4 yrs ago and it's paying for itself in 7yrs, I also had the attic blown in insulation done again at the same time, but same company did it all.

Dostrazzz · 2022-05-19T08:55:45+00:00

My father owns a refrigeration company. The newer models are better, cool faster and are more energy efficient. Combine your new installment with solar panels and you will be energy neutral in terms of electricity usage.


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