Signs it may be time to replace
- The system is roughly 12 to 15 years old or more. Houston-area systems work harder than those in milder climates.
- Repairs are getting frequent or expensive, especially compressor or coil failures.
- Your electric bills keep rising even though your usage hasn't changed.
- The house won't stay comfortable on hot afternoons, or humidity indoors feels high.
- The system uses R-22 refrigerant, which is no longer produced, making leak repairs very costly.
Still on the fence? Our repair-or-replace guide walks through the math.
What a good installation includes
The equipment brand matters less than the installation. A quality install should include:
- A load calculation (often called a Manual J) to size the system for your actual home, not just a match to the old unit. See how AC systems should be sized.
- A matched indoor coil and outdoor unit, rated to work together.
- Inspecting the ductwork for leaks, crushed sections or undersized returns.
- A new drain pan, float switch and drain line where needed.
- Proper refrigerant charge verified by measurement, not guesswork.
- City permit and inspection where required, plus registration of the manufacturer warranty.
How to compare quotes
Ask each contractor for the exact model numbers of the outdoor unit and indoor coil, the efficiency rating, what's included (thermostat, pad, line set, drain work, permit), the labor warranty, and whether a load calculation was done. Two quotes that look far apart in price are often for very different scopes of work.
Financing and rebates
Many contractors offer financing, and manufacturers run seasonal rebates. Federal tax credits and utility programs change frequently, so ask your contractor what currently applies and verify it before you buy.
Ready for a quote? Use the form to request a free in-home estimate from a licensed local contractor. If you also heat with a heat pump, see heat pump repair and replacement.
Common questions
How long does an AC replacement take?
A straightforward replacement of an existing split system is usually done in one day. Jobs that add ductwork or relocate equipment can take longer.
Should I replace the indoor and outdoor units together?
In most cases, yes. Matched components are required for the rated efficiency and often for the full manufacturer warranty.
Is a bigger AC unit better?
No. An oversized system cools too quickly without removing humidity, which leaves the house clammy and causes short cycling.