When to Repair vs. Replace Your HVAC System

The 5,000 Rule

Multiply the age of your HVAC by the repair estimate. If the number exceeds 5,000, replace it. Example: a 12-year-old furnace with a $500 repair = $6,000 → replace. A 6-year-old AC with a $400 repair = $2,400 → repair.

Repair If...

• The unit is under 10 years old
• The repair is under $500
• Refrigerant used is R-410A (still readily available)
• You've had zero major repairs in the past 3 years

Replace If...

• The unit is over 12 years old
• It still uses R-22 refrigerant (banned in 2020, $150+ per pound)
• The compressor or heat exchanger has failed
• Energy bills have jumped 20%+ year over year

What a New System Costs

Central AC + gas furnace combo: $7,500–$14,000 fully installed. Heat pumps: $8,000–$16,000. Ductless mini-split (single zone): $4,000–$6,500. Federal tax credits of up to $2,000 are available in 2026 for high-efficiency heat pumps.