Should you repair or replace your HVAC system?
Most HVAC repairs cost $150 to $650, while replacing a full system costs $5,000 to $11,000. Two simple rules help you decide: replace if a repair costs half the price of a new unit, or if the repair cost times the system's age is more than $5,000.
Repair vs. replacement prices
$150 – $650typical repair, vs. $5,000+ to replace
Most repairs cost $150 to $650. Major repairs such as a compressor, evaporator coil or heat exchanger cost $1,000 to $4,500, which is when replacement often makes more sense.
Two quick rules of thumb
- The 50% rule: if a repair costs 50% or more of the price of a new unit, replace.
- The $5,000 rule: multiply the repair cost by the unit's age. If the result is over $5,000, replacement is usually the better value. Example: a $600 repair on a 12-year-old AC = $7,200, so replace.
Common repairs and what to do
| Problem | Repair cost | Usually repair or replace? |
|---|---|---|
| Bad AC capacitor | $100 – $400 | Repair |
| Furnace igniter | $100 – $250 | Repair |
| Refrigerant leak | $200 – $1,500 | Repair if under 10 years old |
| Blower motor | $500 – $2,300 | Depends on age |
| Failed compressor | $1,800 – $2,800 | Replace if over 10 years old |
| Evaporator coil | $2,500 – $4,500 | Replace if over 10 years old |
| Cracked heat exchanger | $1,000 – $3,000 | Replace unless under warranty |
Signs it's time to replace
- The system is over 10 to 15 years old (AC) or over 15 to 20 years (furnace).
- It uses R-22 refrigerant, which is no longer produced, so recharges cost $90 to $150 per pound.
- Energy bills are climbing and some rooms never get comfortable.
- You've needed repairs more than once in two years.
- A furnace has a cracked heat exchanger or keeps tripping safety switches.
Check the warranty first
Many parts carry 10-year manufacturer warranties if the equipment was registered. Under warranty, you pay mostly labor, which can turn a $2,500 repair into $600 to $1,200. Find the model and serial numbers on the unit's label before calling.
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth repairing a 15-year-old AC?
Usually only for cheap repairs like a capacitor or contactor. For a compressor, coil or refrigerant leak on a 15-year-old unit, replacement is generally the better value.
What is the $5,000 rule for HVAC?
Multiply the repair estimate by the system's age in years. If the total is more than $5,000, replacing is typically more cost-effective than repairing.
How much does a typical HVAC repair cost?
About $150 to $450 for most furnace and AC repairs, with an average near $300, plus a $75 to $200 service call fee.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.