AC repair or replace calculator: get a straight answer
Last checked October 29, 2026
Short answer
Enter your AC's age, the repair quote and the type of system. The calculator applies the $5,000 rule, checks how far your unit is into its Las Vegas lifespan, and flags things like R-22 refrigerant, then tells you which way it leans.
Enter the age and repair quote to see the verdict.
How long Vegas systems last
The bars show the age range where each type of system usually wears out in Las Vegas heat. Enter your system's age above and the marker shows where yours sits.
How it works
- The $5,000 rule: age × repair cost. Over $5,000 leans replace.
- Las Vegas lifespan: a local HVAC company puts split systems at 10 to 15 years here, heat pumps and package units at 10 to 14, mini-splits at 12 to 18. Past the low end, replacing gets more attractive.
- Red flags: R-22 systems, repeated major repairs, and a failed compressor or leaking coil are the signs local contractors list for replacing.
- The repair vs a new unit: we compare your quote to the typical Las Vegas replacement price, about $7,800 for a 3 to 4 ton AC.
A rule of thumb, not a diagnosis. Always get the broken part named, and a second opinion on big calls.
Common questions
How does this calculator decide?
It combines three things: the $5,000 rule (age times repair cost), how far into its Las Vegas lifespan your system is, and red flags like R-22 refrigerant or repeated major repairs. It's a starting point, not a diagnosis.
What is the $5,000 rule?
Multiply the unit's age by the repair cost. Over $5,000 leans toward replacing, under leans toward repairing. It is an industry rule of thumb, not an official formula.
How long does an AC last in Las Vegas?
A Las Vegas HVAC company puts central split systems at 10 to 15 years here, heat pumps and rooftop package units at 10 to 14, and mini-splits at 12 to 18.
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Sources
Show all 6 sources
- CBS News: What is the $5,000 rule for HVAC?
- Pure Plumbing: How long does an AC last in Las Vegas (Jun 2026)
- Pure Plumbing: Repair or replace your AC in Las Vegas (Jun 2026)
- Trane: Should you repair or replace your system?
- Review-Journal: The R-22 Freon phase-out
- HVAC Project Cost: Las Vegas replacement prices (Jun 2026)
Rules, rebates and prices change. If something here is out of date, tell us on the share page and we'll fix it.