AC repair or replace calculator

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 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.

Sources

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Rules, rebates and prices change. If something here is out of date, tell us on the share page and we'll fix it.