The Master Repair vs Replace Guide: 5 Things to Consider

When the equipment isn’t working like it should, this is the biggest question on everyone’s mind: Is it better to replace or repair? There are going to be expenses either way. But you want to feel confident that you’re moving forward with the best long-term option.

Maybe the HVAC equipment can push through another year. Then again, maybe it’s finally time to bite the bullet and invest in an upgrade. This guide can help you figure out what to do. 

THE MASTER REPAIR VS REPLACE GUIDE: 5 THINGS TO CONSIDER

It helps to have checklists. Whether you’re working on the HVAC equipment on your own as a homeowner, or you’re a contractor working to help that homeowner make the right call, it’s important to have some points of reference for the repair vs replace dilemma. Running through these 5 questions can give you a better sense of the direction you need to take.

1. Can you just swap out the air filter?

Sounds simple, but this can make a big difference. And overlooking this happens more often than most people realize. Obviously a good HVAC company will know to check this out for you. As a homeowner, though, it’s always worth taking a second look.

2. Have you hit the 10-year AC mark and/or 15 years with the furnace?

If you’re on the fence about replacing the equipment, this recommendation from ENERGY STAR might help inform your decision. Their rule of thumb is to replace a broken AC system when it’s 10 years old—or older. With furnaces you can stretch that lifespan to 15 years.

Basically, if you’re looking at HVAC equipment that’s only 5 years old, you probably shouldn’t make the investment for a brand-new system. 

3. Is the equipment really that effective anymore?

This goes along with the equipment age question above. Even if making the repair got the system back up and running again, will it be as powerful and efficient as it needs to be to effectively heat or cool the home? Again, if you’re unsure about this as a homeowner, an experienced HVAC contractor should be able to help you out.

4. Can you tally up the recent repair costs?

Another formula you can use is to multiply the cost of the repair by the age of the system. The goal is for that number to come in below $5,000. For example, if you’re looking at a $600 repair and the system is already 10 years old, you might want to go ahead with a new system because it will be more reliable.

5. Do the energy bills keep getting worse?

Improving your home’s energy efficiency can deliver some massive savings. It might seem expensive to buy a new air conditioner or furnace, but when you think about the immediate energy bill savings—and how they’ll add up year over year—going ahead with the replacement could be the best call.   

NEED HVAC REPAIR PARTS? OR BRAND-NEW EQUIPMENT?

Surplus City is here to help! No matter what decision you reach for that replace vs repair question, we’ve got the inventory you need to resolve the issue. We’re all about promoting affordability for our customers. We offer great deals to small business owners in the HVAC industry, and we also have homeowners who reach out to us directly.

Please let us know what’s on your list. Or just browse our inventory online. We’ve got great discounts and savings to help make all of your furnace and air conditioning projects more affordable than ever!