Why “Waiting Until It Breaks” Could Cost You Thousands More—Especially in 2025

April 18, 2025

A/C Pricing Trends

We’ve all heard it before:
“I’ll wait until it breaks.”
Or, “Hopefully, I can get one more summer out of it.”

It sounds like a smart way to stretch your dollars—until it ends up costing you more than ever before.

Let’s break it down.

The Climb in A/C Pricing Over the Years

  • 5 years ago: A 5-ton A/C system could be installed for around $5,000.
  • 3 years ago: That same system averaged $7,000.
  • Today: It’s nearly impossible to get a full install for under $10,000.

And here’s the kicker—prices are projected to climb even higher in 2025 and beyond.

What’s Driving the Cost Spike?

Two key factors are now reshaping the HVAC industry:


1. A2L Refrigerant Transition

Starting in 2025, all new residential HVAC systems will be required to use A2L refrigerants—a newer class of refrigerants designed to be more environmentally friendly.


While better for the environment, A2L systems come with:

  • New technology and safety standards
  • Specialized installation and handling requirements
  • Higher equipment and training costs


This change is pushing prices even higher for both equipment and labor.


2. Tariffs on Imported Components

New and increasing tariffs on HVAC components, including compressors, coils, and even raw materials like copper and steel, are further inflating prices.


Combined, these changes mean homeowners waiting for a system to fail may face:

  • Fewer options on short notice
  • Longer wait times for installations
  • Much higher upfront costs


What Smart Homeowners Did Differently

The ones who came out ahead?

They acted early—before the big changes hit—and opted for:

  • Full-system replacements at pre-inflation prices
  • Warranties that included labor, which are now no longer offered due to sustainability challenges


Bottom Line: Waiting Comes with a Price

Delaying replacement may feel like a money-saving move, but with today’s pricing trends, refrigerant regulation changes, and tariffs, it’s becoming a costly gamble.


If you’re on the fence, now is the time to act—before “waiting” turns into paying more and getting less.

Why “Waiting Until It Breaks” Could Cost You Thousands More—Especially in 2025
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Stay Cool & Comfortable with On Deck AC: Your Trusted HVAC Experts When it comes to home comfort, nothing matters more than reliable heating and air conditioning. Whether it's the peak of summer or the dead of winter, you deserve to feel just right in your own space. That’s where On Deck AC steps in — your go-to local experts for HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance. Why Choose On Deck AC? We know you have options when it comes to HVAC services. But at On Deck AC, we do things a little differently. Here’s what sets us apart: ✅ Local, Honest, and On Time We’re not some big chain with endless call centers. We’re your neighbors — locally owned, community-focused, and always ready to show up when you need us most. ✅ Skilled Technicians You Can Trust Our certified HVAC pros are trained to handle all makes and models. Whether it's an emergency AC repair or a full system installation, we get the job done right — the first time. ✅ Transparent Pricing, No Guesswork No hidden fees. No confusing invoices. We believe in fair, upfront pricing so you can make informed decisions about your home or business. Services We Offer From residential homes to commercial buildings, On Deck AC has the tools and expertise to handle it all: • Air Conditioning Repair & Installation Fast, reliable service when your AC won’t cooperate. • Heating System Repair & Replacement Keep the chill out with furnace and heat pump service you can count on. • Preventative Maintenance Plans Extend the life of your system and avoid costly breakdowns. • Indoor Air Quality Solutions Breathe cleaner with filtration systems, humidifiers, and more. Customer Service That Actually Cares When you call On Deck AC, you’re not just another job ticket. We take pride in building long-term relationships with our customers. That means clear communication, respectful technicians, and follow-ups to make sure you're completely satisfied. Ready for Comfort Year-Round? Don’t wait for a breakdown to give your HVAC system the attention it deserves. Call On Deck AC today for a free estimate or to schedule service. Your comfort is always on deck with us. 📞 (863) 225-1199 📍 Serving Polk Co.& Surrounding Areas
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