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  1. HVAC Repair vs Replace: Costs
  2.  
  3. When To Repair or Replace HVAC?
  4.  
  5. Should You Repair or Replace an HVAC
  6.  
  7. The "$5,000 Rule": When to Repair vs. Replace Your HVAC
  8. -----------------------------------------------------------------
  9. HVAC replacement involves upgrading, removing, and installing a new, more efficient heating and cooling system to improve, comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. Replace your unit if it is over 10–15 years old, requires frequent, costly repairs (50% of a new unit), has safety risks, or uses obsolete R-22 refrigerant.
  10. www.york.com
  11. www.york.com
  12. +4
  13. Key Considerations for Replacement:
  14. When to Replace: Systems aged 10-17+ years, consistent poor performance, rising energy bills, or frequent breakdowns indicate it's time for a replacement.
  15. Cost Factors: Replacement costs range widely, with central AC ($3,000–$15,000), furnaces ($3,800–$12,000), or heat pumps ($6,000–$25,000) depending on efficiency, size, and installation complexity.
  16. Process: A professional contractor will assess your home's needs, check ductwork, remove the old unit, install the new, more efficient system, and test for proper operation.
  17. Benefits: Modern units offer better energy efficiency, quieter operation, and improved indoor air quality.
  18. Trane
  19. Trane
  20. +4
  21. Tips for Success:
  22. Get Multiple Quotes: Consult with professional contractors to get accurate, customized recommendations.
  23. Consider Efficiency: Look for high-efficiency, Energy Star-certified units to save on long-term energy costs.
  24. Check Warranties: Ensure you have a good manufacturer warranty for peace of mind.
  25. Timing: Plan for installation during the off-season (spring or fall) to avoid high demand during extreme weather, which can cause delays.
  26. Trane
  27. Trane
  28. +4
  29. Common Signs of Impending Replacement:
  30. Odd Noises/Smells: Loud, unfamiliar, or burning smells coming from the unit.
  31. Inconsistent Temperatures: Specific rooms are consistently hotter or colder than others.
  32. Rising Energy Bills: Unexplained increases in heating or cooling costs.
  33.  
  34. When is it time to replace?
  35. Certain telltale signs indicate it's time to consider replacing heating and cooling equipment, or improving the performance of your overall system. It may be time to call a professional contractor to help you make a change if:
  36.  
  37. Your heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old.
  38. Consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency units can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs.
  39.  
  40. Your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old.
  41. Consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified furnace, which is 15% more efficient than a conventional furnace. If you have a boiler, consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified boiler that is 5% more efficient than a new, standard model.
  42.  
  43. Your equipment needs frequent repairs and your energy bills are going up.
  44. Your cooling or heating equipment may have become less efficient.
  45.  
  46. Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold.
  47. Improper equipment operation, duct problems or inadequate insulation could be the cause.
  48.  
  49. No one is home for long periods of the day and you do not have a programmable thermostat.
  50. Install a programmable thermostat or have a good contractor install one and instruct you on its use — to start saving energy and money while they're away or sleeping.
  51.  
  52. Your home has humidity problems.
  53. Poor equipment operation, inadequate equipment, and leaky ductwork can cause the air to be too dry in the winter or too humid in the summer.
  54.  
  55. Your home has excessive dust.
  56. Leaky ducts can pull particles and air from attics, crawl spaces and basements and distribute them throughout your house. Sealing your ducts may be a solution.
  57.  
  58. Your heating or cooling system is noisy.
  59. You could have an undersized duct system or a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment.
  60.  
  61. Your score on the Home Energy Yardstick is below five.
  62. That means your energy use at home is above average and you're probably paying more than you need to on energy bills.
  63.  
  64. Common HVAC problems often stem from lack of maintenance, with dirty filters, refrigerant leaks, faulty thermostats, and clogged drains being the most frequent issues. These, along with electrical failures, damaged ductwork, and frozen coils, lead to poor airflow, inconsistent temperatures, high energy bills, and system, often resulting in strange noises or complete failure.
  65.  
  66. Common HVAC Problems and Causes
  67. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters: Restricted airflow, causing the system to work harder, reducing efficiency, and potentially freezing the evaporator coil.
  68. Refrigerant Leaks: Low refrigerant levels due to leaks (or improper charging) cause reduced cooling/heating capacity, ice buildup on coils, and, in some cases, high energy bills.
  69. Thermostat Malfunctions: Incorrect temperature readings, calibration issues, or dead batteries causing the system to run constantly, cycle frequently, or not turn on at all.
  70. Clogged Condensate Drain Lines: Moisture buildup that can lead to water leaks, system shutdowns, and potential mold growth.
  71. Electrical Component Failure: Faulty capacitors, contactors, or circuit breakers/fuses blowing, often causing the unit to fail to start or operate irregularly.
  72. Ignition/Pilot Light Issues: A common problem for furnaces, causing heating failure.
  73. Dirty Condenser/Evaporator Coils: Debris buildup on coils reduces heat transfer efficiency.
  74. Ductwork Issues: Leaky, blocked, or damaged ductwork causing uneven temperatures, weak airflow, and energy loss.
  75. Strange Noises: Rattling, squealing, or hissing sounds indicating loose components, motor issues, or leaks
  76.  
  77. Repair your HVAC if it is under 10–15 years old, breaks down infrequently, and repairs cost less than 50% of a new unit. Replace the system if it is over 15 years old, requires frequent, expensive repairs, or uses obsolete R-22 refrigerant, as new, efficient units offer long-term savings, improved comfort, and better safety
  78.  
  79. Key Decision Factors
  80. Age: If the unit is 10-15+ years old, it is nearing the end of its life and likely needs replacement.
  81. The 50% Rule: If the cost of repairs exceeds 50% of the cost of a new system, replacement is generally more economical.
  82. The $5,000 Rule: A common rule of thumb is to multiply the age of the unit by the cost of repairs. If the result is over $5,000, consider replacing.
  83. Frequency of Repairs: If you are frequently calling for service, the cumulative cost of repairs likely outweighs the cost of a new, efficient system.
  84. Energy Efficiency: Older units often have low SEER ratings. Replacing can lower utility bills significantly, with new, more efficient systems.
  85. R-22 Refrigerant: If your system uses R-22 (often found in units from 2010 or older), it is likely more expensive and harder to repair, making replacement a better option.
  86. Lennox
  87. Lennox
  88. +9
  89. When to Repair
  90. The system is less than 10 years old.
  91. The repair is minor (e.g., faulty capacitor or sensor).
  92. The system has been well-maintained.
  93. The cost of the repair is low.
  94. Lennox
  95. Lennox
  96. +4
  97. When to Replace
  98. The unit is older than 15 years.
  99. The compressor has failed, or the heat exchanger is cracked.
  100. The system is improperly sized for your home.
  101. Energy bills are rising, indicating decreased efficiency.
  102. Trane
  103. Trane
  104. +4
  105. Repair vs. Replace Summary
  106. Factor Repair Replace
  107. Age < 10–12 years > 15 years
  108. Cost < 50% of new unit > 50% of new unit
  109. Frequency First or second time Frequently (e.g., every year)
  110. Efficiency Still energy-efficient High energy bills
  111. Parts Readily available Obsolete/Hard to find
  112. Replacing your HVAC system can increase your home's value and improve indoor air quality.
  113.  
  114. When to Repair Vs. Replace Your HVAC System
  115.  
  116. When to Repair Vs. Replace Your HVAC System
  117. Today, we’ll help you determine if you should repair or replace your HVAC system.
  118.  
  119. Have you noticed that something’s wrong with your HVAC unit? If so, you’ll need to decide whether the problem may be resolved with a simple fix, or if you need to get a completely new unit for your building. The best decision for you will depend on the problem(s) you’re encountering. That’s why, today, we’ll help you determine if you should repair or replace your HVAC system.
  120.  
  121. Consider the Age of Your Unit
  122. An HVAC system will typically last around 15-20 years. If this is roughly the age of your unit, it’s probably towards the end of its lifespan. Even if you could get a little more use out of your system by fixing it up, new problems are sure to arise before long. That’s why we recommend replacing units that are in this age range. If your unit is younger, it probably has a few more years in it, so repairing it becomes a more appealing option.
  123.  
  124. Consider the Cost of Repairs Vs. Replacement
  125. Typically, repairing your HVAC system will be cheaper than replacing it with a new one, but that doesn’t automatically make it the better option. After all, if you have to frequently repair your unit, those costs will add up to the point that replacing it becomes a more economical option.
  126.  
  127. Generally, if repairs would cost less than half of what a replacement costs, it’s worth fixing up your unit, especially if your unit is under ten years of age.
  128.  
  129. On the other hand, for units older than ten years, and if repair costs exceed one half of replacement costs, it might be better to replace your unit entirely.
  130.  
  131. Have Your Energy Bills Gone Up Suddenly?
  132. Your energy bill is likely going to go up when something’s wrong with your HVAC system. The rate at which this bill rises, however, will determine whether you should repair or replace your unit.
  133.  
  134. A small rise in your energy bill means that your HVAC system likely has a small problem, which is more easily fixable. If your bill has spiked in a short amount of time, though, it could mean that your HVAC system is heading into a downward spiral, so replacing your unit with a new one becomes a better option.
  135.  
  136. Repair vs. Replace: How to Know What Your AC System Needs
  137. When your air conditioning system starts acting up, the first question that comes to mind is whether to repair it or invest in a new one. With the summer heat peaking, deciding quickly to ensure your home remains a comfortable haven is essential. While repairing might seem like the more budget-friendly option, there are certain instances where replacement might be more beneficial. This blog post will guide you through factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your AC system.
  138.  
  139.  
  140.  
  141. Consider the Age and Lifespan of Your AC System
  142. One of the primary factors to consider is the age of your air conditioning system. According to This Old House, most HVAC systems last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is within this age range, a repair might suffice and extend its life for a few more years. However, replacing it might be more economical if it's nearing or past this age, especially if it requires frequent repairs or if parts have become obsolete and difficult to find.
  143.  
  144.  
  145.  
  146. Evaluate the Type and Frequency of Repairs
  147. The nature and frequency of issues your AC system encounters can also guide your decision. Minor issues such as a clogged filter or a broken thermostat may warrant a simple AC repair. On the other hand, if your AC system requires constant repairs or experiences significant problems such as compressor failure, a replacement might be the prudent choice. Continual repairs can add up quickly, and investing in a new unit could be more cost-effective in the long run.
  148.  
  149.  
  150.  
  151. Assess Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Savings
  152. Energy efficiency is another crucial factor when deciding between repair and replacement. Older units tend to be less efficient than newer models, which are designed to be more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. If your energy bills have steadily increased despite regular maintenance, it might be time to consider a replacement. A new AC system can offer improved efficiency, saving you money on energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint.
  153.  
  154.  
  155.  
  156. Deciding whether to repair or replace your AC system depends on several factors, including the system's age, the nature of its problems, and its energy efficiency. Evaluating these elements will help you make an informed decision. When in doubt, consulting with an AC repair professional can provide personalized insights and solutions tailored to your needs.
  157.  
  158. As a homeowner, you might be trying to figure out whether to repair or replace your HVAC system. The decision you ultimately make will impact your comfort, energy efficiency, and wallet. At “The Coop,” we’re here to guide you through the pros and cons of each option, helping you make the right decision for your home.
  159.  
  160. Deciding between repairing or replacing your HVAC system is crucial for maintaining a comfortable, energy-efficient home. With advancements in HVAC technology, the choice can significantly affect your monthly expenses and year-long comfort. Either choice comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, impacting not only your immediate comfort but also long-term energy costs and the overall value of the residence
  161.  
  162. Here, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when making this decision, such as the age of your system, repair costs, energy efficiency, safety risks, and potential impact on home value.
  163.  
  164. At “The Coop,” we pride ourselves on offering honest, expert advice and top-quality HVAC services. Whether you choose to repair or replace, our goal is to ensure your needs are met to the best of our ability.
  165.  
  166. Let’s dive into the details and help you make the best choice for you.
  167.  
  168. The Case for HVAC Repair
  169. Advantages of HVAC Repair
  170. 1. Cost-Effective Solution
  171. Repairing your HVAC system often comes at a fraction of the cost of a new heating and/or AC unit. If the estimated repair cost is low and your system is relatively young, opting for a simple repair can save you money in the short term.
  172.  
  173. 2. Quick Fix
  174. A repair can swiftly get your air conditioner or heating system back to working properly, ensuring your home stays comfortable without the possible wait associated with installing a new system.
  175.  
  176. 3. Less Disruptive
  177. Repairing your current heating or AC system is less invasive than a full replacement, allowing you to maintain your daily routine without significant interruptions.
  178.  
  179. Disadvantages of HVAC Repair
  180. 1. Frequent Repairs
  181. Older units or systems that have not had regular maintenance may require frequent repairs, which can add up over time and become less cost-effective.
  182.  
  183. 2. Reduced Efficiency
  184. Even with repairs, older HVAC systems often have lower efficiency compared to newer models. This can lead to higher energy bills and reduced comfort.
  185.  
  186. 3. Limited Life Expectancy
  187. Repairing an older unit might extend its life temporarily, but it won’t match the longevity and reliability of a new system.
  188.  
  189. The Case for HVAC Replacement
  190. Advantages of HVAC Replacement
  191. 1. Improved Energy Efficiency
  192. New HVAC systems are designed to be more energy-efficient, often with high SEER ratings and Energy Star certifications. This can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your energy bills.
  193.  
  194. 2. Enhanced Comfort
  195. A new air conditioning unit or heating system can provide more consistent and reliable cool air or heating, improving your overall comfort.
  196.  
  197. 3. Fewer Repairs
  198. Investing in a new unit means fewer breakdowns and repairs, giving you peace of mind and reducing long-term costs associated with frequent repairs of an older system.
  199.  
  200. 4. Better Air Quality
  201. Modern HVAC systems come with advanced filtration and purification technologies, enhancing your indoor air quality and contributing to a healthier living environment.
  202.  
  203. 5. Environmental Benefits
  204. Newer units are more eco-friendly, using refrigerants that are less harmful to the ozone layer and designed to reduce overall energy consumption.
  205.  
  206. Disadvantages of HVAC Replacement
  207. 1. Higher Initial Cost
  208. The upfront cost of a new HVAC system can be a significant investment. However, this can be offset by long-term savings on energy bills and reduced repair costs.
  209.  
  210. 2. Installation Time
  211. Replacing your HVAC system sometimes involves a more extensive process than a repair, potentially disrupting your daily routine for a short period.
  212.  
  213. 3. Depreciation
  214. Like any home appliance, a new HVAC unit begins to depreciate once installed. However, the benefits always outweigh any depreciation.
  215.  
  216. Making the Decision: Repair or Replace HVAC System?
  217. When deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC system, consider these important factors:
  218.  
  219. System’s Age
  220. If your current unit is over 10-15 years old, replacing it might make more financial sense due to the advancements in energy efficiency and the likelihood of increased repair costs.
  221.  
  222. Technological Advancements: Modern HVAC systems boast significant technological improvements, leading to higher efficiency, better performance, and new features like smart thermostats.
  223. Wear and Tear: Older systems tend to have more wear and tear, resulting in decreased efficiency and reliability. Components like compressors and heat exchangers may be nearing the end of their lifespan.
  224. Obsolete Parts: As systems age, finding replacement parts can become challenging and expensive, making repairs less viable.
  225. Repair Costs
  226. Compare the estimated repair cost with the cost of a new system. If repairs are more than 50% of the cost of a new unit, replacement is often the more sensible choice.
  227.  
  228. Cost-Benefit Analysis: Consider both the immediate repair costs and potential future expenses. Frequent repairs can add up quickly, making a new system more cost-effective in the long run.
  229. Warranty Considerations: New HVAC systems come with warranties that can cover parts and labor for several years, providing peace of mind and financial protection against future breakdowns.
  230. Energy Savings: Although the upfront cost of a new system is higher, the savings on energy bills can offset this over time, providing better value.
  231. Energy Efficiency
  232. Assess the efficiency of your current system. New HVAC systems can drastically reduce energy costs, making a replacement a smart long-term investment.
  233.  
  234. SEER Ratings: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings indicate the efficiency of cooling systems. Higher SEER ratings mean better efficiency and lower energy consumption.
  235. Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE): For heating systems, AFUE measures the efficiency. A higher AFUE rating means more efficient fuel use and lower heating costs.
  236. Energy Star Certification: Look for Energy Star-rated systems, which meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the EPA, ensuring substantial energy savings and reduced environmental impact.
  237. Safety Risks
  238. Older systems can pose safety risks such as carbon monoxide leaks or fire hazards. A new system ensures compliance with current safety standards.
  239.  
  240. Carbon Monoxide Leaks: Older furnaces and heat exchangers can develop cracks, leading to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. New systems have better safety features to prevent such events from occurring.
  241. Electrical Hazards: Worn-out wiring and outdated components in older systems can increase the risk of electrical fires. Modern systems are built to higher safety standards, reducing these risks.
  242. Refrigerant Issues: Older AC units might use R-22 refrigerant, which has been phased out due to environmental concerns. New systems use safer, more eco-friendly refrigerants.
  243. Home Value
  244. A new HVAC system can add value to your home, making it a worthwhile investment if you plan to sell in the future.
  245.  
  246. Market Appeal: Homebuyers are attracted to energy-efficient homes with modern HVAC systems, knowing they won’t have to invest in a new system shortly after purchasing.
  247. Home Inspections: During home inspections, an outdated or malfunctioning HVAC system can be a red flag, potentially lowering your home’s market value or leading to renegotiations.
  248. Increased Comfort: A new HVAC system enhances overall home comfort, making it more appealing to potential buyers. Improved air quality, consistent temperatures, and reduced noise levels contribute to a better living environment.
  249.  
  250. Air Conditioning Replacement or Repair: What’s Right for You?
  251. Summary: You’ll learn about the $5,000 Rule for repairing or replacing your system, what AC repairs cost, what AC replacement costs, and how to finance a new system.
  252.  
  253. If a failing AC system no longer keeps your home comfortable, it may be time to consider air conditioning replacement. But before shelling out money on AC replacement, arrange to have several HVAC companies take a closer look at your current system to determine whether a repair or replacement would be your best option.
  254.  
  255. In this article, you’ll learn about:
  256.  
  257. The $5,000 Repair or Replace Rule
  258. When Air Conditioning Replacement May Be the Best Option
  259. AC Replacement Cost
  260. HVAC Financing
  261. When Air Conditioning Repair May Be the Best Option
  262. The $5,000 rule
  263. The $5,000 rule is a rule of thumb in the HVAC industry to help homeowners decide whether HVAC repair or HVAC replacement makes more sense in the long run.
  264.  
  265. The $5,000 rule: Multiply the age of your equipment by the estimated repair cost. If the number is more than $5,000, then you should consider replacing your unit. If it’s less, a repair may be the answer. For example:
  266.  
  267. A system that is 10 years old and has a repair cost of $300 = $3,000. It’s probably best to repair it.
  268. A system that is 10 years old and has a repair cost of $600 = $6,000. You should likely consider a replacement.
  269. When air conditioning replacement may be the best option
  270. Several factors may indicate that now is the time to replace your AC unit. Keep reading to learn more and how to make an informed decision.
  271.  
  272. Age of the unit
  273. The older your air conditioner is, especially if it's more than 10 years old, the sooner you should consider replacing the equipment. An older system may frequently break down, and over time, the manufacturer might discontinue certain mechanical parts. Not being able to replace broken parts would be a key sign it’s time to replace your air conditioner.
  274.  
  275. High repair costs
  276. As your air conditioner ages, the unit may need repairs more often. If you feel that you’re putting too much time and money into frequent repairs, you may want to consider investing in a new unit. Refer to the $5,000 rule above.
  277.  
  278. Expired warranty
  279. If your HVAC warranty has expired, you’re responsible for the full amount of repair costs. Most warranties last 5-10 years, so if your unit is older, the warranty has likely expired.
  280.  
  281. Increased energy bills
  282. AC systems can lose efficiency over time and older units may use more electricity than they did when they were new. You may notice an increase in your energy bills as your AC unit becomes less efficient. Damage to the unit, such as a leak, could also cause the unit to work overtime to cool your home, which could raise your bill. Either way, expensive bills may be a good reason to purchase a new unit.
  283.  
  284. Low SEER rating
  285. While a low SEER rating doesn’t always indicate inefficiency, you may want to consider an upgrade if your unit scores lower than the minimum standard rating of 13. A SEER2 rating measures the energy efficiency of air conditioning units. The minimum rating increased in 2023, putting older units even further below standard.
  286.  
  287. Freon® use
  288. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) phased out the production or importation of an older refrigerant called R22, or Freon® in 2020. This is after the EPA In 2010, the U.S. stopped the sale of new air conditioning units that use R-22. If your AC unit uses Freon®, not only is the unit at or near the end of its lifespan, but you may not be able to access Freon® when your unit needs a repair. Read more about what the R-22 phase-out means for you.
  289.  
  290. R-410A use
  291. R-410A is the refrigerant that replaced R-22 in cooling units after 2010. Because of new regulations, R-410A is also being phased out and will be replaced with a more sustainable refrigerant. In residential units, the new HVAC industry standard refrigerant will be R-454B.
  292.  
  293. Because the refrigerant transition will happen slowly, there will be an ample supply of R-410A for years to come. So if your AC unit is less than 10 years old and repairs are minor, stick with AC repair. If your unit is approaching 15 years old, AC replacement might be the better option.
  294.  
  295. AC replacement cost
  296. The cost to replace an AC unit is a major factor in the decision-making process of whether to repair or replace it. Air conditioning replacement costs would include the price of the unit plus installation fees. Your costs could range from $5,800 to $17,000 depending on the system you choose. However, many variables would impact your final price, including but not limited to:
  297.  
  298. Your location
  299. The difficulty of the installation
  300. The size of your home
  301. Potential ductwork modifications
  302. Necessary electrical upgrades
  303. If you choose a zoned HVAC system
  304. If you choose a qualified matched system, you may be eligible for state rebates and utility rebates. In addition, HVAC manufacturers or dealers may offer special discounts or rebates to customers. For example, you can check out Trane’s savings and discounts to see how much you could save.
  305.  
  306. Air conditioning systems are generally made up of two matching components — an indoor furnace or air handler and an outdoor air conditioner or heat pump. Replacing either the indoor or the outdoor unit without replacing the other could reduce the system’s overall efficiency and cause additional failure.
  307.  
  308. If you need to replace your central air conditioner, you’ll likely need to replace the furnace as well to ensure you have a matching set. Keep this in mind if you’re considering an AC replacement.
  309.  
  310. Upgrading your AC unit, or any piece of your HVAC system, is an investment that will save you money over time. Here’s how much you could save on energy costs in one year when you buy a new air conditioner or furnace:
  311.  
  312. Product Type Average Yearly Energy Cost Savings
  313. Air Conditioner $140*
  314. Furnace $372*
  315. *AC results based on PickHVAC’s SEER Savings Calculator for a 3-ton 22 SEER air conditioner versus the industry standard 14 SEER air conditioner in St. Louis, MO. Furnace results based on PickHVAC’s AFUE Savings Calculator for a 95% AFUE-rated furnace compared to a 60% AFUE-rated furnace in a 2,700-square-foot home in St. Louis, MO.
  316.  
  317. HVAC system replacement financing
  318. In addition to the cost savings you can achieve by getting a more efficient system, and applying tax credits and rebates to the cost, you will also want to consider your HVAC financing options. There are several ways to pay for your new system - just decide what’s best for you.
  319.  
  320. Schedule a free quote
  321. When air conditioning repair may be the best option
  322. There are also several factors to consider that may make AC repair a better option than replacing the unit. Let’s take a look.
  323.  
  324. Age of the unit
  325. If your AC unit is less than 10 years old, repairing it when issues arise will be the most cost-effective option in the majority of cases. It still has a lot of life left!
  326.  
  327. Repair costs
  328. Refer to the $5,000 rule again. If you only have repairs every few years and the cost isn’t overwhelming, air conditioning repair may be the best option. The table below gives some ballpark estimates for various AC repair costs. Some repairs are no big deal, while others can be quite expensive.
  329.  
  330. AC Replacement Part Average Cost of the Repair
  331. Capacitor $100-$400
  332. Circuit Board $75-$600
  333. Compressor $900-$2,900
  334. Condensate Drain Tube $100-$195
  335. Condensate Pump $100-$165
  336. Condenser Coil $1,000-$4,000+
  337. Drain Pan $150-$350
  338. Evaporator Coil $1,000-$5,000+
  339. Expansion Valve $100-$700
  340. Fan Motor $200-$700
  341. Fuses and Relays $75-$290
  342. Refrigerant Recharge Will vary on the type of refrigerant (R-22 or R-410A) and how much.
  343. Refrigerant Lines $1,500-$3,000+
  344. Thermostat $90-$600
  345. Warranty
  346. If your warranty is still good, that can help offset the cost of parts replacement. Check your warranty online or refer to the printed version you got when the unit was installed to see what’s covered. Also, check to see if you have a base warranty of 5 years or a longer warranty of 10 or 15 years. Repairing a unit that is still under warranty is likely the most cost-effective option.
  347.  
  348. Energy bills
  349. If you notice your energy bills suddenly increasing, you may want to get your air conditioner checked out by your local HVAC professional. Make sure to change the filter regularly and schedule AC maintenance in the spring to keep your unit running at its most efficient.
  350.  
  351. Repair or Replace
  352.  
  353. It's inevitable that every homeowner is going to find themselves choosing between repairing or replacing their HVAC system. And while no two situations are alike, we've got seven factors to consider that will make your decision easier.
  354. 1. When to repair
  355. When considering repairs, there's a surprisingly simple formula widely used across the HVAC industry for evaluating the best use of your money. Just multiply the unit's age by the cost of repairs. If the total exceeds $5,000, you'll want to replace it. You'll want to do the same if you're finding yourself repeatedly repairing the same system.
  356.  
  357. On the other hand, if your system calls for the occasional repair while performing well overall—or if it's is less than five years old—it's likely a replacement won't be necessary for some time.
  358.  
  359. Either way, your Lennox Dealer can provide you with a return on investment and lifetime cost analysis to help inform your decision.
  360.  
  361. Image for Repair vs Replace Formula Example
  362.  
  363. 2. Know your system's age.
  364. Age absolutely matters when it comes to HVAC. According to ENERGY STAR®, if your air conditioning unit is older than 10 years and/or your furnace is older than 15 years, it's time to consider a replacement.
  365.  
  366. 3. Safety above all else.
  367. The second your system presents a potential safety issue to your household—such as carbon monoxide poisoning or being a fire hazard—replacement is the only decision to make.
  368.  
  369. 4. Advancements over time.
  370. The HVAC industry has evolved significantly in recent years. While older analog systems can function well, modern digital systems open up a world of efficiency and communication features. Depending on the age of your system, there are plenty of home comfort advancements that could absolutely transform your air, including drastically improved efficiency, variable-speed and variable-capacity units, indoor air quality innovations, zoning technology that lets you control temperatures in different sections of your home, and smart thermostats with the amazing ability to monitor sensors in all of your HVAC equipment to react, diagnose, and troubleshoot.
  371.  
  372. Also, recent regulation changes mean that older units that still use the ozone-depleting R-22 refrigerant will prove harder and costlier to repair, as this compound is being phased out. In fact, its increasing scarcity is already resulting in inflated prices that will undoubtedly continue to rise at greater expense to homeowners. Currently, all Lennox units run on R-410A refrigerant to reduce energy costs and environmental impact. Learn more about the impact of R-22 refrigerant.
  373.  
  374. Repair vs Replace
  375.  
  376. 5. Personal comfort.
  377. Beyond temperature and humidity, there's the general idea of how your air “feels.” And all the latest advancements can make it so the only way your air ever feels is how you want it to feel. Innovations like smart thermostats offer unprecedented control. While features like zoning ensure different parts of your household deliver and maintain different family members' personal degree of perfection. Basically, once you get used to living with perfect air, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
  378.  
  379. Should you choose to replace your HVAC, your Lennox Dealer can help you find the perfect system for your home. By considering factors including your house's layout, current ductwork, and the number of windows in every room, your dealer can quickly identify the right-sized, whole-home system that's tailored to your comfort.
  380.  
  381. 6. Beyond energy savings.
  382. Ready to replace? You'll find added incentives in credits and rebates from manufacturers and your local utility company that often total up to thousands of dollars in savings. Ask your Lennox Dealer and/or your local utility company for specific offers available to you.
  383.  
  384. 7. Environmentally responsible.
  385. Environmental impact energy star logo
  386.  
  387. Choosing an ENERGY STAR® certified product that meets or exceeds federal efficiency standards will greatly minimize energy waste—and that's something we can all feel good about. Additionally, your product may qualify for even more offers and savings including tax credits, utility rebates and promotions.
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