As a general rule, if your air conditioner is over 10 to 15 years old and facing a major breakdown, it is usually more cost-effective to replace it. Older units are prone to failing parts and often run on outdated, expensive refrigerants (like R22) that are being phased out by the government.
If the cost of repairing your old unit is more than a third of the cost of a brand new system, we strongly recommend upgrading. A new system will come with a fresh 5-year manufacturer warranty and will run significantly more efficiently, meaning the savings on your electricity bill will help pay for the new unit over time.