Five things that decide it
1. Age
ENERGY STAR's list of signs it's time to consider replacing starts with this one: a heat pump or air conditioner "more than 10 years old" (ENERGY STAR: When is it time to replace?). That's a reason to compare options, not a deadline. Some systems run well past 10 years and some struggle earlier.
You can usually find the manufacture date on the outdoor unit's data plate, or in the serial number.
2. Refrigerant type
The data plate also lists the refrigerant.
- R-22 (HCFC-22). As of January 1, 2020, no new R-22 is made in or imported into the U.S. Recycled R-22, cleaned to new-refrigerant specifications, is still available. EPA does not require you to replace a working R-22 system (EPA: Homeowners and Consumers FAQ). But supply is limited to existing stock, so an R-22 system that needs refrigerant work deserves a closer look at replacement.
- R-410A. Since January 1, 2025, EPA rules have restricted new residential and light commercial AC equipment made with refrigerants above a global warming potential (GWP) of 700. R-410A is on the restricted list (EPA: HFC restrictions by sector). That does not mean your R-410A system has to go. EPA says homeowners can maintain and repair their systems throughout the equipment's useful life, including replacing a faulty component with a similar R-410A part (EPA: HFC phasedown FAQ). A May 2026 EPA rule also allows R-410A systems made or imported before 2025 to keep being installed until supply runs out (EPA final rule fact sheet, May 2026).
EPA also advises asking technicians to "locate and repair leaks instead of 'topping off'" a leaking system (EPA). A system that keeps losing refrigerant has a leak, and finding it is part of the repair-or-replace math.
3. Repair history
ENERGY STAR flags equipment that "needs frequent repairs" while "energy bills are going up" (ENERGY STAR). One repair on a younger system is normal. Repeated calls on an older one are a pattern. Keep your invoices, because they make this decision much clearer.
4. Efficiency
Older systems were built to lower efficiency standards. Since January 1, 2023, a new split-system AC installed in Florida must meet at least 14.3 SEER2 (under 45,000 Btu/h) (AHRI). Our SEER2 guide shows how to estimate the difference from the two ratings and your own bill, with no guesswork.
ENERGY STAR says certified high-efficiency heat pumps and ACs, "installed correctly," can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs (ENERGY STAR). Since February 1, 2026, only heat pumps can earn that label. Central ACs no longer can (ENERGY STAR sunset notice).
5. Comfort
ENERGY STAR lists rooms that are "too hot or too cold," humidity problems, excessive dust and a noisy system as signs that equipment or ducts need attention. Sometimes the fix is ductwork or a repair, not a new system. Sometimes it's a system that was never the right size. DOE notes that oversizing, improper charge and leaky ducts cause "efficiency losses, occupant discomfort, and shortened equipment life" (DOE FEMP).
How long should an AC last in Florida?
There's no honest single number. Florida systems run much of the year. Near the beach, manufacturers warn that salt spray and mist are "especially corrosive" and can "shorten the equipment's useful life" (Rheem Use and Care Guide). Installation quality and maintenance matter too. On the barrier island or the water? Read our coastal AC guide. ENERGY STAR's 10-year marker is a good time to start comparing.
For businesses
The same five factors apply to a shop, office or restaurant, plus one more: downtime. A breakdown during business hours costs more than comfort. If you run a small light commercial space in Brevard County, plan the decision before the busy season instead of during a failure.
Before you call: safe checks
Some problems that look like a dying system are simple:
- Make sure the thermostat is set to Cool and below room temperature.
- Check the air filter and replace it if it's dirty.
- Make sure vents and returns are open, and the outdoor unit is running and clear of debris.
Still not right? Turn the system off and get help. Don't open panels, touch wiring or add refrigerant. Mikey can walk you through more safe checks: Ask Mikey.
The next step
We look at the system and the home or building first: age, refrigerant, condition, repair history, ductwork and comfort. Then you get a written quote, so you can compare repair and replacement side by side. See AC repair and AC replacement.
- Start My Estimate
- Ask Mikey (Mikey is free)
- Call (321) 405-1806
Firefighters, teachers, healthcare workers, military and other local heroes can get 10% off the total, up to $2,500, on new units and repairs through our Local Heroes program. Family members qualify too. It can't be combined with other offers.
Frequently asked questions
Should I repair or replace my air conditioner in Florida?
Repair when the system is younger, the problem is isolated and it still keeps you comfortable. Consider replacing when it's more than 10 years old, needs frequent repairs, uses R-22, or can't control heat and humidity. A written quote after a home visit lets you compare both.
How long should an AC last in Florida?
It varies. Long run seasons, salt air near the coast, installation quality and maintenance all affect lifespan. ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement once a system is more than 10 years old.
Can I still get my R-22 air conditioner recharged?
Yes, with recycled R-22. No new R-22 has been made or imported since January 1, 2020, so supply is limited to existing stock. EPA recommends finding and repairing leaks instead of topping off.
Do I have to replace my R-410A system?
No. EPA says you can maintain and repair it for its useful life, including replacing a faulty component with a similar R-410A part.
Is it worth repairing a 10-year-old AC?
Sometimes. If the repair is minor and the system still cools and dehumidifies well, repair can make sense. If repairs are frequent or bills keep climbing, compare the cost against a replacement quote.
Why don't you list prices online?
Every home, system and installation is different. We look at the property first and give you a written quote, so you aren't relying on a generic number.
Sources
- ENERGY STAR: When is it time to replace?
- EPA: Homeowners and Consumers FAQ
- EPA: HFC restrictions by sector
- EPA: HFC phasedown FAQ
- EPA final rule fact sheet, May 2026
- AHRI
- ENERGY STAR sunset notice
- DOE FEMP
- Rheem Use and Care Guide
Written by OBC Air & Heat, Space Coast, Brevard County, FL. State Certified Air Conditioning Contractor, License No. CAC1825377. General information only; your system and home are reviewed before any recommendation.
