Most homeowners eventually face the same question: pay for another repair, or bite the bullet and replace the whole system.
The 50% Rule
If a single repair costs more than 50% of what a comparable replacement would cost, replacement usually wins.
Age matters more than condition
A 22-year-old furnace that "still works" is a candidate for replacement even when the repair is cheap.
Repair windows worth taking
- The unit is less than halfway through its expected lifespan. - The repair is under 30% of replacement cost. - No other component is showing meaningful wear.
Replace windows
- Repair cost exceeds 50% of replacement. - The unit is past 75% of expected lifespan. - Energy bills have climbed even when usage has not.
When in doubt, get a second quote.
A trustworthy contractor will give you a straight answer on repair vs. replace.