Should You Repair or Replace?
Answer a couple of quick questions to help you make an informed repair or replacement decision.
Calculator for the $5,000 rule
Disclaimer: This information is provided as a general guideline only. Consult a licensed HVAC professional to help ensure that you are making the best decisions about your equipment.
Your safety matters!
Find a Local ProSome damage to your system, like carbon monoxide and gas leaks, can be lethal. In those situations, a replacement is necessary. Help prevent emergencies before they happen with seasonal maintenance checkups by a professional HVAC technician.
Where do you go from here?
STEP 1
Research your needs
Consider your home comfort level, climate, ductwork, energy use, and desired monthly heating and cooling costs.
STEP 2
Get a dealer quote
Schedule a visit with your dealer for a custom recommendation. Visit our Dealer Locator page for a list of questions to discuss with your dealer.
STEP 3
Fix or upgrade your unit
Gather all your information to make a replace or repair decision. Follow up with your dealer and enjoy your new or improved HVAC.
Further repair or replace guidance
Read through the Repair list and the Replace list. Make note of which statements apply to your HVAC system or unit (air conditioner, heat pump, furnace, or air handler.) If more statements in the Repair column apply to you, HVAC repairs make sense. If more statements in the Replace column apply, then you should start planning for HVAC replacement.
Repair if...
Your warranty is active. Your repairs may be covered.
Replace if...
Your warranty expired. Your product is no longer covered, meaning you are responsible for all HVAC repair costs.
Critical
Getting Started Guide
Learn helpful HVAC tips and tricks before you purchase your system.Owner’s Manual
Learn more about your product, like its technical specs and innovative technology.
Maintenance
A healthy HVAC system can last longer and save money. Maintain your system with these tips.
Related Reading on HVAC Repair
- AC Repair or AC Replacement: Which One Is Right for You
- Average Air Conditioning Repair Cost
- Average Furnace Repair Cost
- Average Heat Pump Repair Cost
Related Reading on HVAC Replacement
- 4 Warning Signs It’s Time for AC Replacement
- AC Replacement: A Buying Guide
- Trane’s Best Air Conditioners
- 5 Warning Signs It’s Time for Heat Pump Replacement
- Heat Pump Replacement: A Buying Guide
- What HSPF2 Should My New Heat Pump Have?
- Heat Pump Rebate Roundup: How to Save in Your State
- Trane’s Best Heat Pumps
- 5 Warning Signs It’s Time for Furnace Replacement
- Furnace Replacement: A Buying Guide
- What BTU and AFUE Should My New Furnace Have?
- Trane’s Best Furnaces
- 12 HVAC Do’s and Don’ts for the Homeowner
- HVAC Replacement: 5 Things to Consider Before Signing a Contract
- HVAC Replacement: A Homeowner’s Guide
- HVAC Financing: How Does It Work?
Related Reading on Finding the Right HVAC Company
FAQs
The $5,000 rule is an industry accepted guideline that helps homeowners make a financial decision about their HVAC system. First, multiply the age of your system by the repair cost. If the outcome is over $5,000, you should probably replace. If the outcome is under $5,000, you should probably repair.
At this time, the best way to get a repair estimate is to speak with a dealer. No worries, you can use the guide above to get some guidance even without a repair estimate.
A number of factors can affect your system’s lifespan. Running your A/C or heater nonstop, mixing old and new parts in a system, or poor installation can lead to frequent repairs or an early breakdown of your system. Protect your HVAC system’s health with regular seasonal maintenance visits from your dealer. This will help maintain your system and help catch any issues early on before they become emergencies.
In non-emergency situations, you can try a few troubleshooting tips like changing your filter, turning a unit’s power on/off, or resetting your thermostat. For a detailed guide, check out the Trane Troubleshooting page!
Caution: Avoid experimenting and never troubleshoot if you have an emergency. Call an HVAC professional instead who can safely diagnose your system’s issue and advise next steps.
Contact a local dealer
Dealers can answer questions, help you find the right products for your home, and repair your system.
We’re here to help
Connect with our Customer Care team about your products, warranties, and dealer concerns.
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