Repair orreplace
A repair bill on an old system raises the same question every time. Here are the factors a contractor weighs, with no prices attached.
Repair or replace, side by side
| Factor | Leans toward repair | Leans toward replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Age of the system | Within its expected service life | Near or past it, with other parts wearing |
| Which part failed | A single inexpensive part, such as a capacitor or igniter | The compressor, a coil or a cracked heat exchanger |
| Repair history | First failure in years | Repeat failures in one or two seasons |
| Comfort | House cools or heats evenly | Rooms stay hot or cold even when the system runs |
| Refrigerant | System uses a currently available refrigerant | System needs a refrigerant that is being phased out |
| Energy bills | Bills have been stable | Bills have climbed with no other change |
What drives the cost of either path
- The part that failed and how hard it is to reach. An attic air handler takes more time to work on than a unit on the ground.
- Equipment size and efficiency rating, which set the price of a replacement.
- Ductwork condition. Sealing or replacing ducts adds work but also changes how well any system performs.
- Electrical needs, such as a new disconnect, breaker or wiring.
- Permits, inspections and removal of the old equipment.
- Warranty length and what it covers.
Questions that sort the choice
Ask the contractor each of these and ask for the answers in writing.
- What exactly failed, and can I see it?
- What is the system's expected remaining life?
- If I repair this, what else is likely to fail next?
- What does the repair cost against a replacement, in the same written format?
- Is the equipment's refrigerant still being produced, and does that affect repair costs?
A second opinion is fine
Two contractors can diagnose the same system differently. Calling the line does not stop you from asking another contractor for a second opinion on a large job. Make sure both quotes cover the same scope.
Call and get a contractor on the line
The number connects you with an independent HVAC contractor that serves your ZIP code. Early in the day usually leaves more room on a contractor's schedule.