🔥 Why A/C Repairs Are Costing More then Ever + What To Do ❄️

Here’s the thing: temperatures are climbing and breaking records year after year #insertsweatyfaceemoji

In fact, July 2023 was declared the hottest month ever recorded globally, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In recent years here in the US,  some areas of the country see temps reach up to 120°F, with more than 170 million Americans under high heat alerts during the peak of the summer season.

This isn’t just really uncomfortable and poses a risk to sensitive groups — it’s a direct challenge to your home’s cooling system.

As temperatures spike, your air conditioning unit is working way overtime – harder and longer – to keep your home at a livable temperature. The higher the heat > the more stress is placed on your HVAC components > this increases the risk of sudden breakdowns, higher energy bills, and reduced system lifespan. #insertspiraleyesemoji

Why A/C Repairs Are Costing More Than Ever

If ya don’t know, now ya know, homeowner. The rising temperatures aren’t the only concern for the life of your HVAC system. Many older A/C units rely on R-22 refrigerant (commonly known as Freon), which was phased out in 2020 due to environmental regulations. Because it’s no longer being manufactured, any existing supply of R-22 is extremely limited—and expensive. This means:

• Repair costs for older systems are rising.
• Replacing R-22 refrigerant can cost hundreds more than newer alternatives.
• Technicians may recommend full system replacements instead of repairs.

On top of that, global supply chain pressures and increased demand for HVAC parts have caused HVAC repair and replacement costs to rise by 20–30% in some markets since 2022, according to industry estimates.

🔥 🔥🔥 And so, we’ve rounded up a quick-tip guide below to help you protect your HVAC system on sweltering days or during a heat wave.

Schedule Regular Maintenance We’ve said it one, we’ll say it again: a yearly HVAC inspection (preferably before summer) is a must. It helps catch wear-and-tear issues early. Dirty coils, low refrigerant, and clogged filters can cause your A/C to overheat or short-cycle when it’s working overtime.

Change Your Air Filters Frequently You don’t need an HVAC tech for this one. During heavy-use months, filters should be changed every 30 days. Here’s a quick 90 secs how-to. Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to strain harder—especially problematic when temperatures soar.

Use a Programmable Thermostat Reduce unnecessary cooling when you’re away. Setting your thermostat just a few degrees higher can lower your energy usage and reduce wear on the unit.

Create Shade for Outdoor Units Direct sun on your condenser can increase its temperature and lower efficiency. Use shrubs, fences, or A/C covers that allow airflow to help protect it from overheating. Who knew.

Seal and Insulate Heat can sneak in through poorly insulated attics and drafty windows. The more heat that enters your home, the harder your A/C has to work. Weather-stripping and attic insulation can make a huge difference.

Bottom line? 

Your air conditioner is your summer lifeline. With historic heat waves becoming the norm, proactive maintenance is no longer optional—it’s essential. Protecting your system now not only keeps your home cool but saves you from costly emergency repairs when demand is at its peak.

If your A/C is over 10 years old or uses R-22, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Not only will a newer system be more energy-efficient, but it will also run on modern, eco-friendly refrigerants that are easier—and cheaper—to maintain.

Stay cool, stay smart, and give your A/C the support it needs to survive the summer.