How do I decide whether to repair my old AC or replace it?

It comes down to Age, Refrigerant, and the "50% Rule." At Patriot Electric Heating and Cooling, we recommend replacement in these three specific scenarios: The "50% Rule": If the repair cost is 50% or more of the value of a new system, stop throwing money at it. For example, spending $2,500 to fix a 12-year-old unit is a bad investment. The "R-22 Freon" Factor: If your unit was built before 2010, it likely uses R-22 (Freon). This refrigerant is banned and incredibly expensive to refill. If an R-22 unit has a leak or a bad compressor, it is officially "totaled." The "Compressor" Veto: The compressor is the heart of the system. If it fails (grounds out) or suffers "burnout" after 10 years, replacing the whole unit is usually smarter than just swapping the part, as the rest of the components are likely near failure too.

How long will I be without AC during the replacement?

For a standard system replacement, we typically finish in one single day (6 to 8 hours). The Typical Timeline: We arrive around 8:00 AM to remove the old equipment. By late afternoon, the new system is installed, tested, and cooling your home. The Exception: If your project requires replacing ductwork or major electrical upgrades, it may take 2 days. In these cases, we often provide portable AC units to keep your bedrooms comfortable at night. Quality Check: We budget an extra hour at the end for Commissioning. We don't just "turn it on"; we fine-tune the refrigerant charge to ensure the system is hitting its factory efficiency rating before we leave.

How do I know what size air conditioner my home actually needs?

You cannot rely on square footage alone. At Patriot Electric Heating and Cooling, we calculate size based on Heat Load (Manual J), not just floor space. Bigger is not better. The "Oversized" Trap: If the unit is too big, it cools the air so fast that it shuts off before it removes the humidity. This leaves your home feeling cold, clammy, and sticky. It also causes "short cycling," which spikes your electric bill and wears out the motor. The "Undersized" Risk: If the unit is too small, it will run 24 hours a day on hot Texas afternoons and never reach your set temperature. The Solution: We measure your insulation, window direction, and ceiling height to find the exact "Goldilocks" tonnage that keeps you cool and dry.

AC Replacement | Patriot Electric Heating & Cooling

Are you facing frequent, costly repairs? At Patriot Electric Heating and Cooling, we understand that sometimes, repairing an aging AC unit just isn't the most economical or effective solution. That's why we offer professional AC replacement services in Tyler, TX, and the surrounding communities, helping you upgrade to a more efficient, reliable, and comfortable cooling system.

With over two decades of experience, our certified technicians are experts in assessing your current HVAC situation and recommending the perfect new AC unit for your specific needs and budget. We prioritize transparency, offering free estimates and flat-rate pricing, so you know exactly what to expect.

While some AC issues can be resolved with a repair, there comes a point when replacement becomes the smarter financial and comfort decision. Here are the key indicators that your AC unit is likely ready for replacement:

Age of Your Unit: The average lifespan of an AC unit in East Texas is typically 10-15 years. If your system is approaching or has exceeded this age, even if it's still running, its efficiency is likely declining. Newer models offer significant advancements in technology and energy efficiency. Continuing to repair an old unit past its prime often leads to a cycle of expensive fixes that add up over time.
Frequent and Costly Repairs: Are you calling for AC repair multiple times a year? Are the repair bills piling up? If the cost of a single repair is more than 50% of the cost of a new unit, or if you're spending more than half the cost of a new unit on repairs annually, it's a strong sign that replacement is more cost-effective in the long run. Investing in a new system provides peace of mind and often comes with a new warranty.
Skyrocketing Energy Bills: One of the most compelling reasons for AC replacement is a noticeable and consistent increase in your monthly energy bills, especially during the cooling season. As AC units age, their components wear down, leading to decreased efficiency. This means your unit has to work harder and consume more electricity to achieve the same level of cooling. A new, high-efficiency AC system can significantly reduce your energy consumption and provide substantial savings on your utility bills.
Inconsistent Cooling or Hot Spots: If some rooms in your home are always too warm, or if you experience uneven temperatures throughout your living space, your AC system may no longer be adequately sized or capable of properly distributing cool air. This can be due to an aging compressor, leaky ductwork, or a unit that was never correctly sized for your home's needs (especially if you've added on or renovated). A new, properly sized system will ensure consistent comfort in every room.
Your Unit Uses R-22 Refrigerant (Freon): The production and import of R-22 refrigerant (commonly known as Freon) have been phased out due to environmental regulations. If your AC system relies on R-22, finding the refrigerant for repairs is becoming increasingly difficult and expensive. Eventually, R-22 will be unavailable, making repairs impossible. Upgrading to a new system that uses environmentally friendly refrigerants is a necessary step for long-term operability and compliance.
Excessive Noise Production: While some operational noise is normal, if your AC unit is suddenly making loud grinding, banging, squealing, or rattling noises, it's a sign of significant internal wear and tear. These noises often indicate serious mechanical problems, such as a failing compressor or motor, which can be very expensive to repair. Often, replacing the unit is a more sensible investment.
Poor Indoor Air Quality: Older AC units may not offer the advanced filtration and dehumidification capabilities of modern systems. If you're experiencing excessive humidity, persistent dust, or an increase in allergy symptoms indoors, a new AC unit with improved air filtration and humidity control features can significantly enhance your home's indoor air quality.
Frequent Breakdowns and Unreliability: If you're constantly worried about whether your AC will make it through another hot day, it's time for a change. A reliable cooling system is essential for comfort and peace of mind in East Texas. A new unit offers reliability and comes with a manufacturer's warranty, giving you years of worry-free cooling.

When you choose Patriot Electric Heating and Cooling for your AC replacement, you can expect a seamless and professional experience:

Thorough Assessment: Our technicians will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your current system and your home's cooling requirements.
Personalized Recommendations: We'll present you with suitable AC system options from leading manufacturers, explaining the benefits of each, including energy efficiency ratings (SEER2), features, and warranties.
Detailed, Free Estimate: You'll receive a transparent, upfront quote with no hidden fees, so you can make an informed decision.
Expert Installation: Our certified team will meticulously remove your old unit and install your new system according to manufacturer specifications and local codes, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
System Testing and Education: We'll test the new system to verify proper operation and efficiency, then walk you through its features, maintenance tips, and answer any questions you may have.

Don't wait for your old AC to completely fail in the middle of a heatwave. If you recognize any of these signs, contact Patriot Electric Heating and Cooling today. We're dedicated to providing Tyler, TX, and surrounding areas with top-quality AC replacement services, ensuring your home stays cool, comfortable, and efficient for years to come. Call us at (903) 978-1007 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation!

Patriot is very fair with their monthly maintenance pricing for taking care of my homes two HVAC system. Regarding my most recent service, it was necessary to upgrade one HVAC system. The technician, Seth, was very professional in explaining my one systems challenges and reasoning for replacement. The price for the new system is expensive as expected. The service and install was extraordinary, which is why it’s necessary to go with a high quality company like Patriot instead of a shade tree company or DIY. Patriot not only installed a fantastic new 5 tone system but upgraded my second system, all for a very fair cost. Paul, Cody, Samuel, and Martin were onsite for two days and were all extremely professional. Don’t hire another company if you want a quality job well done.

Seth of Patriot Electric was amazing! My HVAC was in bad shape. He laid it all out slowly and methodically, and pieced together different options, varying in cost. He was trying to help me figure out the most cost effective repairs to address the multitude of issues with my system. Ultimately, I opted for a new outside unit. He came back and got it all installed. He explained everything and even cleaned up after himself. If it weren’t for the new unit and working AC, you’d never even know he was here! He was courteous, communicative, and professional throughout. Thank you Seth!

How do I decide whether to repair my old AC or replace it?
It comes down to Age, Refrigerant, and the "50% Rule." At Patriot Electric Heating and Cooling, we recommend replacement in these three specific scenarios:

The "50% Rule": If the repair cost is 50% or more of the value of a new system, stop throwing money at it. For example, spending $2,500 to fix a 12-year-old unit is a bad investment.
The "R-22 Freon" Factor: If your unit was built before 2010, it likely uses R-22 (Freon). This refrigerant is banned and incredibly expensive to refill. If an R-22 unit has a leak or a bad compressor, it is officially "totaled."
The "Compressor" Veto: The compressor is the heart of the system. If it fails (grounds out) or suffers "burnout" after 10 years, replacing the whole unit is usually smarter than just swapping the part, as the rest of the components are likely near failure too.
How long will I be without AC during the replacement?
For a standard system replacement, we typically finish in one single day (6 to 8 hours).

The Typical Timeline: We arrive around 8:00 AM to remove the old equipment. By late afternoon, the new system is installed, tested, and cooling your home.
The Exception: If your project requires replacing ductwork or major electrical upgrades, it may take 2 days. In these cases, we often provide portable AC units to keep your bedrooms comfortable at night.
Quality Check: We budget an extra hour at the end for Commissioning. We don't just "turn it on"; we fine-tune the refrigerant charge to ensure the system is hitting its factory efficiency rating before we leave.
How do I know what size air conditioner my home actually needs?
You cannot rely on square footage alone. At Patriot Electric Heating and Cooling, we calculate size based on Heat Load (Manual J), not just floor space. Bigger is not better.

The "Oversized" Trap: If the unit is too big, it cools the air so fast that it shuts off before it removes the humidity. This leaves your home feeling cold, clammy, and sticky. It also causes "short cycling," which spikes your electric bill and wears out the motor.
The "Undersized" Risk: If the unit is too small, it will run 24 hours a day on hot Texas afternoons and never reach your set temperature.
The Solution: We measure your insulation, window direction, and ceiling height to find the exact "Goldilocks" tonnage that keeps you cool and dry.

Reach Out Today

AC Replacement

Expert AC Replacement Services in Tyler, TX & Surrounding Areas

Is your old air conditioner struggling to keep your East Texas home cool?

When Is AC Replacement the Right Choice? Key Signs to Consider

The Patriot Electric Heating and Cooling Replacement Process

Pricing Disclaimer

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FAQ

How do I decide whether to repair my old AC or replace it?

How long will I be without AC during the replacement?

How do I know what size air conditioner my home actually needs?

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