5 Signs You Might Need a New AC Before Summer

The Washington, D.C., area is known for summer heat and humidity — an intense combination that makes the temperature feel much higher than it is.

Air conditioning is your first line of defense, and now is the time to determine if yours is up to the task or if you need an AC replacement.

Here are five telltale signs that you might need a new air conditioner before summer begins:

1. Frequent Repairs

AC repairs are a part of any homeowner’s life, but their frequency gives you a clear sign of the system’s long-term condition. How frequent is too frequent? A well-maintained system should operate without issue.

If your air conditioner has needed repairs more than once every one to two years — especially for the same or increasingly complex problems — that’s a sign you need a new unit.

2. Costly Repairs

It’s never fun to get a service bill, but some hurt your wallet more than others. With air conditioners, those bills can rise exponentially depending on the particular repair. For example, replacing a condenser coil, compressor, or evaporator coil can cost upward of nearly $3,000.

Such high repairs are often your system’s way of indicating it may be time for a replacement. To tell for sure, follow the 50% rule. When a single repair bill equals 50% or more than the cost of a new unit, it’s generally more cost-effective to replace it.

Why? Chances are, if you need that big of a repair, there are more problems just around the corner. Rather than pour your money into a system that’s breaking down, just move on.

3. Advanced System Age

This is one of the biggest factors in determining if a replacement is needed. An older system is less efficient and often requires more frequent service as it reaches the end of its lifespan, much like an older car.

While regular AC maintenance can certainly increase that lifespan, the average unit lasts about 10 to 15 years. If your system’s age is toward the end of that range, it’s time to consider a replacement.

4. R-22 System

The Environmental Protection Agency kicked off 2025 with a regulation phasing out previously used refrigerants like R-22 and R-410A in favor of safer, more efficient, and more eco-friendly alternatives R-45B and R-32.

While this phase-out won’t happen overnight, production on older refrigerants has stopped, and HVAC systems will be manufactured without them going forward.

While existing units that use R-22 can still be serviced, prices are already rising, and you could end up paying exorbitant amounts for recycled or stockpiled refrigerants as the industry standard changes. If you have an R-22 system, consider replacing your AC now.

5. Poor System Efficiency

Energy efficiency is important for any household system, but especially for your air conditioner. Cooling costs make up about half of your utility bill in the summer, so if you have to crank up an inefficient system to get relief, then you’re wasting serious money.

Reducing operating costs is just the beginning. A more efficient air conditioner also reduces your environmental impact with a smaller carbon footprint, lasts longer, and produces better indoor air quality that ultimately benefits your family’s health.

As an added incentive, homeowners in the greater Washington, D.C., area can also take advantage of HVAC rebates for installing a more energy-efficient system.

Choose Our Team for Trusted AC Replacement

If you see any of these signs from your air conditioner, call the friendly experts at Len The Plumber Heating & Air.

Our HVAC service team can help you confirm if your unit is ready to be replaced, choose a new one that fits your home’s needs, and seamlessly install it with minimal disruption to your home.

Plus, all work is backed by our guarantee, and our flexible financing options mean there’s no need to put off having a new air conditioner installed in time for summer.

Contact Len The Plumber Heating & Air to schedule an AC replacement in Charles, Montgomery, or Prince George’s County.