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Should You Repair or Replace?
Calculator for the $5,000 rule
The $5,000 rule is an industry accepted rule for determining whether to repair or replace an HVAC system. Multiply the age of your equipment by its estimated repair cost. If the outcome is under $5,000, you should probably repair. If over $5,000, you should replace.
How do I find my system’s age?
- Look for a nameplate, metal tag, or sticker on your unit
- Find the MFG Date. This is the manufacturing date, which lets you know how old your unit is.
- IF NO MFG DATE: Some units don’t state the MFG Date, but you can still figure out the age by finding:
- the brand name
- model of the unit
- serial number
- Call a dealer and give them this information to decode. Or, you can decode the age from the serial number yourself! Brands and models use different code systems, so it’s best to look up the system for your unit online
How do I get a repair estimate
The easiest way to get a repair estimate is to call a dealer to come by and look at your unit. They can give you a quote on how much it would cost to repair your unit as well as discover the issues your unit is experiencing.
Find a dealer near you
Disclaimer: This information is provided as general guideline only. Consult a licensed HVAC professional to help ensure that you are making the best decisions about your equipment.
Your safety matters!
Where do you go from here?
Research your needs
Get a dealer quote
Fix or upgrade your unit
Further repair or replace guidance
Fill out these 2 checklists. Put a check next to items that apply to you and your system. At the bottom, view your total number of checkmarks for each checklist. More checkmarks under either Repair or Replace means that may be the better option for you.
Repair if...
Your warranty is active. Your repairs may be covered.
Replace if...
Your warranty expired. Your product is no longer covered.
Critical
Your unit uses R-22 Freon. This refrigerant is being phased out as R-22 Freon is harmful to the ozone layer. Why is R-22 refrigerant phased out? R-22 refrigerant is harmful to the environment due to ozone depletion. EPA made R-22 illegal to produce or import as of 2020. Back in 2010 EPA banned production of HVAC systems that used R-22. If your HVAC unit is from 2010 or earlier, it most likely uses R-22. Due to the phase out R-22 is very difficult and expensive to replace if it leaks or has any issues. We recommend replacing your system if it still uses R-22.
Buyer’s Guide
Learn helpful HVAC tips and tricks before you purchase your system.Contact a Trane dealer near you
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.
FAQs
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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