The 5,000 rule is a useful Wellington starting point: multiply your AC unit's age (in years) by the repair cost; if the result exceeds $5,000, replacement usually makes more financial sense than repair. Wellington's inland location (20+ miles from the coast) extends typical AC lifespans slightly compared to coastal cities, so a well-maintained unit can last longer here.
Replace your AC when:
- The unit is 12+ years old (Wellington's inland location puts typical lifespan at 10–14 years vs. 8–12 at the coast)
- The repair cost exceeds 30–40% of the replacement cost
- The system uses R-22 refrigerant (phased out; recharges are prohibitively expensive)
- You've had two or more compressor or coil failures in the last 24 months
- Your electric bill has climbed with no change in usage
Repair your AC when:
- The unit is under 10 years old and well-maintained
- The failed part is electrical (capacitor, contactor, thermostat) or a simple mechanical failure
- The repair is under $1,500 and utility bills are stable
Replacement in Wellington triggers both a Village of Wellington / Palm Beach County mechanical permit and HOA approval in gated communities. For equestrian facilities, replacement may also require coordination with the property's equine-facility insurance carrier. Gulfstream Cooling handles both. Call (561) 531-3665 for an assessment.