When to Replace Your Air Conditioner in Portland, OR
Portland weather keeps you guessing. One day it’s damp and cool, the next you’re trying to remember where the fan ended up last fall. When the summer heat shows up, it doesn’t mess around—and having an air conditioner that works the way it should makes a big difference.
When summer rolls through Portland, it doesn’t hold back. One week it’s mild, the next you’re stuck with sticky heat and hoping your AC can still hang. And if it’s been a few years since you’ve given it any real attention, you might already be noticing some signs it’s slipping.
Now, we get it—no one’s in a rush to replace something that still “sort of” works. Plenty of homeowners figure, “Let’s just get through one more season.” But that gamble can backfire. Whether it’s rising bills, surprise breakdowns, or just constant repairs, waiting too long can end up costing more.
So, if you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to retire the old system, here are a few things to keep an eye on.
Your System’s Getting Up There in Age
If your air conditioner’s been around for over a decade, there’s a good chance it’s not running like it used to. Even if it turns on and cools the house, it’s probably not doing so efficiently anymore.
Think of it like driving an older car. Sure, it still gets you where you’re going, but you’re stopping at the gas station a lot more. Same deal here—you’re likely using more energy for less cooling.
And in a place like Portland, where warm days can stretch deep into fall, that wear and tear adds up. If you’ve noticed it’s running longer or struggling to cool the place down, your system could be on its last legs.
You’re Calling for Repairs More Than You Used To
Every AC unit will need a fix now and then, but if it feels like you’ve got your HVAC company on speed dial, that’s something to think about.
Maybe it’s a strange noise this week, weak airflow the next, and suddenly you’re three service calls deep by July. Those repairs add up quick—and at some point, replacing the system starts to make more financial sense than throwing more money at patching it.
Some Rooms Feel Like a Sauna, Others Like a Fridge
Uneven cooling is something we hear about a lot. One room might feel fine, while another just won’t cool down no matter how long the system runs. This can be a duct issue in some cases, but it’s often a sign that the AC just isn’t moving air like it used to.
If your system isn’t the right size for your home—or it’s just worn down—it’s going to have a hard time keeping things even.
Your Energy Bills Keep Creeping Up
This one can be easy to miss if you’re not paying close attention. You’re running the same AC you always have, but suddenly your summer bills are higher than they were last year. That’s usually a red flag.
Older systems lose efficiency gradually, so it might not be obvious right away. But if your cooling habits haven’t changed and your bills keep rising, your AC could be the reason.
It’s Still Using the Old Refrigerant (R-22)
This one’s more technical, but still important. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a chance it still runs on R-22 refrigerant (also called Freon). That stuff’s been phased out and is no longer being produced.
So if your system leaks refrigerant and it needs to be recharged, it could cost a small fortune—if the refrigerant’s even available. If this applies to your unit, replacing it is usually the smartest move.
Why More People in Portland Are Upgrading Early
We’ve been hearing from more folks across Portland—especially in areas like Oregon City, Newberg, and Wilsonville—who are replacing their old systems before they completely give out. And honestly, it makes sense.
Newer AC units are quieter, more energy-efficient, and better at handling the kind of heat waves we’ve been getting the past few summers. Plus, newer models work well with smart thermostats and have better humidity control—something a lot of older systems struggle with.
Waiting until your AC dies in the middle of August means sweating it out while everyone else is also trying to book a repair. Getting ahead of it just makes life easier.
Not Sure What to Do? Let’s Chat.
Not sure if it’s worth fixing your AC or if it’s time to swap it out? That’s what we’re here for. We’ll check it out, walk you through what’s going on, and talk through your options—no pressure, no sales pitch.
Folks around Portland have been calling Ben's Heating & Air Conditioning for years to keep their homes cool, and we’re proud to be the ones they trust.
If you’ve got questions or just want someone to take a look, give us a shout. We’re local, we’re friendly, and we’re ready when you are.