When to Repair vs. Replace Your HVAC System

One of the most common questions we hear is: should I repair my HVAC system or replace it? There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but here's a practical framework to help you decide.

The 5,000 rule: Multiply the age of your system (in years) by the repair cost. If the result exceeds $5,000, replacement is usually the better investment.

Age matters: Most AC systems last 10–15 years. Furnaces typically last 15–20 years. If your system is approaching or past these ages, repairs become less cost-effective.

Frequency of repairs: If you've had multiple repairs in the past two years, the system may be in a general decline. At some point, you're spending more on repairs than a new system would cost.

Efficiency: Older systems are significantly less efficient than modern ones. A new high-efficiency system can reduce your energy bills by 20–40%, which offsets the upfront cost over time.

R-22 refrigerant: If your AC uses R-22 (Freon), it's worth knowing that this refrigerant is no longer manufactured and is very expensive. A system requiring R-22 recharge is often a strong candidate for replacement.

When in doubt, call us. We'll give you an honest assessment and help you weigh the options — no pressure, just straight answers.