Choosing between repairing or replacing your air conditioning system is never a decision to take lightly. At AirGreen, we guide each client in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore, through a thorough reflection process to identify the best solution based on their comfort, budget, and energy efficiency. Here are four essential questions we encourage you to ask yourself before making an informed decision.
Is your air conditioner over 10 years old?
The age of an air conditioner is a key factor in deciding between repair and replacement. On average, a wall-mounted air conditioner or central system has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, depending on the maintenance performed and the environment in which it's used.
Why does age matter?
Over time, components wear out, energy efficiency drops, and repairs become more frequent—and more expensive. Older units typically use outdated refrigerants (often R-410A), which are now less environmentally friendly and sometimes hard to source. For example, we recently assisted a homeowner in Laval whose 2009 unit used a refrigerant no longer compliant with new regulations. The repair would have cost nearly $1,200, while replacing it with a new Fujitsu KZAH R-32 wall-mounted heat pump, energy-efficient and eligible for grants, was a far wiser decision.
Takeaway: If your unit is over 10 years old and the warranty has expired, replacement is strongly worth considering.
Does the repair cost represent more than 30% of the price of a new air conditioner?
A simple but often overlooked rule: if a repair costs more than 30% of the price of a replacement system, it’s time to rethink your strategy. At AirGreen, we always provide a clear estimate before any intervention, including a side-by-side comparison with available replacement options.
Real-world example from Longueuil
During a service call in Longueuil, a client contacted us for a failed compressor in their central air conditioner. Replacing just that part would have cost around $1,800. In comparison, installing a brand-new, high-performance Goodman Air Handler R-32 system eligible for Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert grant came to $4,900—installation included. This client received $1,860 in grants, bringing their net cost down to about $3,000 for a brand-new, warrantied, much more efficient system.
Is your system still energy efficient?
Technological advances in HVAC have transformed the energy efficiency of today’s systems. A unit installed ten years ago can consume up to 40% more electricity than a modern model, such as the Bosch BIVA IDS Premium R-454B heat pumps, among the most efficient on the market.
Real impact on your bills
Take the case of a family in Sainte-Thérèse on the North Shore who contacted us about a sluggish central air conditioner. Their summer electricity bills reached $200 per month just for cooling. After replacing it with a Bosch BIVA IDS Premium unit, their bill dropped by nearly 35%, saving them over $400 annually. At this rate, the system will be paid off in 6 years, not to mention the $2,000 in grants they received thanks to our assistance.
Have you experienced multiple breakdowns or performance drops recently?
The frequency of breakdowns and the level of comfort experienced are also key indicators. An air conditioner struggling to maintain a consistent temperature, making unusual noises, or blowing less cold air often signals recurring issues or overall decline.
Real testimonial from Brossard
A client in Brossard called us after three service calls over two summers, including an electronic board replacement and two gas recharges. Despite the repairs, comfort was still lacking. We assessed the entire system and recommended a Gree Extrême 24,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump, quiet, reliable, and eligible for a $1,860 LogisVert grant. Since the installation, the client has had zero breakdowns and enjoys optimal comfort, even during heatwaves.
Why trust AirGreen?
At AirGreen, our role goes far beyond just installing HVAC systems. We are above all technical advisors, attentive to every situation, offering precise and transparent diagnostics, then proposing the best solutions—whether it’s a one-time repair or a strategic replacement.
We serve the entire Greater Montréal area, including Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, with a personalized approach for every project. Our technicians are trained in the latest technologies, including new refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B, as well as in the requirements of government rebate programs.
Grants and support
We help our clients maximize available grants through programs like LogisVert, Chauffez Vert, and various energy renovation tax credits. Our administrative team handles the entire application process for you, free of charge.
A few tips before deciding
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Have your system evaluated by a certified professional.
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Request an energy efficiency report.
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Always compare medium-term costs (bills, repairs, grants).
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Opt for brands known for their reliability and after-sales support.
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Avoid repairing a system that’s at the end of its life, especially if it’s energy-hungry.
Conclusion
Repairing or replacing an air conditioner is a strategic decision that requires reflection—and above all, honest and skilled guidance. At AirGreen, we take the time to analyze each case and provide you with the most cost-effective, long-lasting, and comfortable solution. Whether you're in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore or the South Shore, we're here to guide you with professionalism and precision.
Still unsure? Contact AirGreen today for a free, no-obligation evaluation. Let’s find the ideal solution for your summer comfort—together.