The Question Every Homeowner Dreads
I'm Omar Jacobo, owner of Frosty's HVAC in Farmers Branch, and I get this question almost daily: "Omar, should I fix this thing or just get a new one?" Here's how I help homeowners make that decision honestly.
The 50% Rule
If the repair costs more than 50% of a new system's price and your unit is over 10 years old, replacement usually makes more financial sense. Here's why: a $3,500 compressor repair on a 14-year-old system might buy you 2-3 more years, but a new system for $8,000-$14,000 gives you 15+ years of reliable, efficient cooling.
When Repair Makes Sense
- Your system is under 10 years old. Most components still have life left.
- The repair is under $1,000. Capacitors ($500), contactors ($600), and drain line repairs ($350) are straightforward fixes.
- It's your first major repair. Every system needs maintenance — one repair doesn't mean the system is dying.
- The unit runs efficiently. If your energy bills haven't spiked, the system is still pulling its weight.
When Replacement Makes Sense
- System is 12+ years old with a major failure. Compressor ($3,500-$5,000) or evaporator coil failures on aging systems rarely justify repair.
- Uses R-22 refrigerant. Phased out in 2020, R-22 costs $100+/lb and is increasingly scarce.
- Multiple repairs in the past 2 years. A pattern of failures signals systemic decline.
- Energy bills keep climbing. Older systems lose efficiency. A new 18 SEER2 system (our Stay Frosty tier) can cut cooling costs 30-40% versus a 10 SEER unit.
Real Numbers to Consider
Our three replacement tiers in the DFW area:
- Stay Cool (Goodman) — 15 SEER2, single-stage: $8,000-$19,000 depending on tonnage
- Stay Frosty (Carrier) — 18 SEER2, dual-stage: $10,000-$21,000
- It's A Frosty Life (Trane) — 20+ SEER2, variable speed: $14,000-$26,000
All tiers include the Frosty Thermostat, new disconnect, electrical whip, condensate treatment, permit, and full cleanup. See exact pricing for your home with our AC Replacement Cost Calculator.
What I Promise
When I diagnose your system, I'll tell you the truth. If a $500 capacitor will fix it, I'm not going to push a $15,000 replacement. And if your 15-year-old compressor is shot, I'm not going to pretend a repair makes sense. That's why Frosty's HVAC has a 4.9/5 rating from 94 Google reviews.
Call (469) 254-0548 for an $85 diagnostic (waived if you proceed with the repair). We serve Farmers Branch, Coppell, Irving, Flower Mound, Lewisville, and Grapevine.
Related: Signs Your AC Is Dying | How Long Do AC Systems Last in Texas? | AC Replacement Cost in Texas (2026)