Is HVAC Repair or HVAC Replacement the right choice?

We’re glad you asked. We want to be transparent. Our HVAC repair or HVAC replacement calculator incorporates insights from Trane HVAC experts. It evaluates your HVAC system’s age, applies a $3,000 repair-cost threshold, and considers whether your system is under warranty.

• For systems less than 5 years old: Repairs are almost always recommended, especially if there’s an active warranty that covers the cost of parts and/or labor.
• For systems less than 10 years old but older than 5 years: Repairs are typically suggested, as parts might still be covered under a standard manufacturer’s warranty if the equipment was registered and you were the homeowner at the time of installation. You might also be covered if the seller transferred the warranty to you.
• For systems more than 10 years old with a repair cost less than $3,000: In this scenario, HVAC repair might still be the most cost-effective choice, particularly if the repair is for a one-time fix like replacing a blower motor or capacitor.
• For any system where the HVAC repair cost exceeds the $3,000 threshold: HVAC replacement may be more cost-effective, but overall system performance and one-time fixes should be considered.
• For any system more than 15 years old: System replacement may be recommended. Well-maintained central AC units and furnaces can last up to 20 years, while heat pumps can last up to 15 years. As HVAC systems age, the years of wear and tear can lead to necessary repairs. You may want to weigh the cost of HVAC repairs against the price of a new HVAC system, especially if you use your heating and cooling system less frequently.

For specific recommendations tailored to your HVAC system, including warranty details and a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, contact your local Trane dealer. They can help ensure that you have all the information you need to make the best decision based on your needs and the long-term health of your HVAC system.

We get it. You want to avoid a repair bill if you can. 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 HVAC Troubleshooting page.

Caution: Avoid attempting HVAC repair on your own. Call an HVAC professional instead who can safely diagnose your system’s issue and advise next steps.

Contact your local Trane dealer(s) to get an estimate. For more costly repairs, we would suggest getting multiple quotes, just like you would for HVAC replacement.

In general, an HVAC system will last 10-20 years. For specific units:

• AC unit: 15-20 years
• Furnace: 15-20+ years
• Heat Pump: 15 years

Systems will last longer in mild and moderate climates where the AC isn’t running hard all summer, or the furnace rarely kicks in.

Yes. Low airflow can cause a lot of problems with your HVAC system, including everything from higher energy bills to a frozen evaporator coil to a complete system shutdown. By practicing regular maintenance, you can prevent these problems that can shorten the life of your system.

Things to do include:

• Change the HVAC air filter every 30-90 days.
• Keep indoor supply registers and return air vents clear.
• Keep the area around the outdoor unit clear on all sides by 1-2 feet.
• Schedule professional maintenance each spring and fall. Consider signing up for an HVAC maintenance plan for convenience and savings.

“Regular maintenance is always the best way to extend the life of your system and have the highest level of overall reliability. Fixing small problems over time can prevent bigger issues later,” said Mark Woodruff, Senior Product Manager, Air Conditioners

Neglecting the maintenance we just mentioned can cause early system failure, but before that, it can cause the need for early HVAC repairs.

• DIY or handyman repairs using incompatible parts.
• Improper sizing or poor installation.

According to Mark Woodruff, Senior Product Manager, Air Conditioners, “An incorrectly sized system can cost you money on your utility bills, can cause your home to be uncomfortable, and can potentially lead to expensive system breakdowns and early end-of-life replacement.”

Your central air repair costs will vary depending on what the problem is, how old your system is, if it’s under warranty, local labor costs, and more. Nationally, central air conditioner repair costs can range from $100 on the low end to $5,000+ on the high end.

The cost to repair a furnace can range from $100 to $3,000+. Your total cost will depend on what the problem is, how old your system is (if compatible parts are available), if the furnace or part is under warranty, local labor costs, and more.

The cost to repair a heat pump can range from $100-$5,000+. Like other HVAC units, your cost will depend on what the problem is, how old the heat pump is, if it’s under warranty, local labor costs, etc.

Always check your warranty first. If it covers the needed HVAC repairs, especially costly parts or labor, repair is likely your best choice. However, if repair costs are near or above 50% of the price of a new system, consider HVAC replacement, particularly for older HVAC equipment.

If your central air conditioner or heat pump uses R-22 (Freon®), you need to know that, because of its ozone-depleting qualities, it is no longer manufactured. This means it’s harder to get and more expensive. In addition, a system that uses R-22 is at least 16 years old, meaning it is at the end of its life. Replacing an HVAC system that uses R-22 can save money and reduce your environmental impact.

The cost to replace an HVAC system can vary widely, and depends on many factors, including:

• Brand
• Energy efficiency of the new units (SEER2, HSPF2, AFUE)
• Capacity
• Existing ductwork
• Local labor costs
• And more

Air conditioner replacement, furnace replacement, and heat pump replacement with more efficient HVAC units will cost more upfront, but can help reduce your energy bills for years to come. Since older units are less efficient and use more energy, you should see lower energy bills when you replace your system. HVAC financing can help you afford a more energy-efficient system today by spreading the purchase price over several years.

For information on what a new Trane HVAC system will cost, visit our Pricing Guide. For specific pricing for your home, contact your local Trane dealer for a quote.

A good place to start is by getting recommendations from friends and family. Look for companies that have been in business at least 5 years, are NATE-certified, and are licensed and insured. If your system is still under warranty, call the HVAC company that installed it. If you’re looking into HVAC system replacement, get multiple quotes and compare them. In addition to cost, think about who answered your questions and was most responsive. Like finding a good auto mechanic, finding a good HVAC company you can partner with takes a little legwork.

Our dealer locator is also a good place to start.