Repair or Replace Your Furnace or AC?
There is no single rule, but a few factors usually point the way. Use these to have a clear conversation with the technician who looks at your system.
Check the age
Look for the manufacture date on the unit's label. A furnace near 20 years old or an AC past 15 often makes a large repair hard to justify.
Weigh the repair against a new system
If one repair is a large share of the cost of a new unit, ask for a replacement estimate to compare.
Do not ignore safety
A cracked heat exchanger, scorched wiring or repeated venting problems are safety issues, not just comfort issues.
Think about the next few winters
An older system that keeps breaking down may cost more in repeat visits than it saves.
Look at rebates
Xcel Energy and some local governments have offered incentives for efficient equipment and heat pumps. Ask your installer what currently applies.
Get it in writing
Ask for itemized pricing, the equipment model numbers and whether the permit is included.