What is the $5,000 rule?

The $5,000 rule is an industry accepted guideline that helps homeowners make a financial decision about their HVAC system. First, multiply the age of your system by the repair cost. If the outcome is over $5,000, you should probably replace. If the outcome is under $5,000, you should probably repair.

I don’t have a repair estimate. What do I do?

At this time, the best way to get a repair estimate is to speak with a dealer. No worries, you can use the guide above to get some guidance even without a repair estimate.

What affects the lifespan of my system?

A number of factors can affect your system’s lifespan. Running your A/C or heater nonstop, mixing old and new parts in a system, or poor installation can lead to frequent repairs or an early breakdown of your system. Protect your HVAC system’s health with regular seasonal maintenance visits from your dealer. This will help maintain your system and help catch any issues early on before they become emergencies.

What can I do to troubleshoot my system?

In non-emergency situations, you can try a few troubleshooting tips like changing your filter, turning a unit’s power on/off, or resetting your thermostat. For a detailed guide, check out the Trane Troubleshooting page! Caution: Avoid experimenting and never troubleshoot if you have an emergency. Call an HVAC professional instead who can safely diagnose your system’s issue and advise next steps.

Can I replace only a part or do I need to replace the whole system?

We highly recommend replacing the whole system as not all products are compatible. While in some cases it is possible to only replace a part, mixing old and new parts or multiple brands in a system can lead to early repairs or higher monthly costs due to an inefficient system. Talk with your dealer or check out the Buyer’s Guide to find the best option for you.

Should You Repair or Replace?

Answer a couple questions to quickly get feedback on whether to repair or replace your HVAC unit. Follow the $5,000 rule of thumb or dive deeper with a guide to discover the best solution for you.

Your safety matters!

Some damage to your system, like carbon monoxide and gas leaks, can be lethal. In those situations, furnace replacement is necessary. Help prevent emergencies before they happen with seasonal maintenance checkups by a professional HVAC technician.

Calculator for the $5,000 rule

The $5,000 rule is an industry-accepted rule for determining whether to repair or replace an HVAC system. Multiply the age of your equipment by its estimated repair cost. If the outcome is under $5,000, you should probably repair it. If over $5,000, you should replace it.

Age

Repair Estimate

Disclaimer: This information is provided as a general guideline only. Consult a licensed HVAC professional to help ensure that you are making the best decisions about your equipment.

Your safety matters!

Some damage to your system, like carbon monoxide and gas leaks, can be lethal. In those situations, a replacement is necessary. Help prevent emergencies before they happen with seasonal maintenance checkups by a professional HVAC technician.

Where do you go from here?

STEP 1

Research your needs

Consider your home comfort level, climate, ductwork, energy use, and desired monthly heating and cooling costs.

STEP 2

Get a dealer quote

Schedule a visit with your dealer for a custom recommendation. Visit our Dealer Locator page for a list of questions to discuss with your dealer.

STEP 3

Fix or upgrade your unit

Gather all your information to make a replace or repair decision. Follow up with your dealer and enjoy your new or improved HVAC.

Find a dealer

Further repair or replace guidance

Read through the Repair list and the Replace list. Make note of which statements apply to your HVAC system or unit (air conditioner, heat pump, furnace, or air handler.) If more statements in the Repair column apply to you, HVAC repairs make sense. If more statements in the Replace column apply, then you should start planning for HVAC replacement.

Repair if...

Your warranty is active. Your repairs may be covered.

Replace if...

Your warranty expired. Your product is no longer covered, meaning you are responsible for all HVAC repair costs.

Critical

Your unit uses R-22 (Freon®). This refrigerant is being phased out as R-22/Freon® is harmful to the ozone layer.

Getting Started Guide

Learn helpful HVAC tips and tricks before you purchase your system.

Visit the Getting Started Guide

Contact a Trane dealer near you

The $5,000 rule is just the start. Schedule a visit with an expert for a custom recommendation.

Find a dealer in your area

Trane Comfort SpecialistThis badge spotlights dealers who are experts in servicing and maintaining Trane’s HVAC systems.

24/7 Emergency ServiceDealer is available for 24/7 emergency service.

NATE CertifiedA NATE certification is the top accreditation for HVAC technicians. It is awarded by an independent organization.

DiagnosticsIf you choose to share your system data, this dealer is equipped to remotely troubleshoot potential issues before they become emergencies.

FinancingDealer offers flexible financing options to help manage expenses of owning a system.

Charter MemberCharter members are the original Trane Comfort Specialists. They’ve been committed to TCS values since the program started in 1998.

Troubleshooting

Discover the ways you can troubleshoot your HVAC system.

Learn to troubleshoot

Owner’s Manual

Learn more about your product, like its technical specs and innovative technology.

Find your manual

Maintenance

A healthy HVAC system can last longer and save money. Maintain your system with these tips.

Get tips

FAQs

Contact a local dealer

Dealers can answer questions, help you find the right products for your home, and repair your system.

Control your home's comfort anytime, anywhere.

Breathe easier with air filter tips and tricks.

Should You Repair or Replace?

Your safety matters!

Calculator for the $5,000 rule

Your safety matters!

Where do you go from here?

Research your needs

Get a dealer quote

Fix or upgrade your unit

Further repair or replace guidance

Repair if...

Replace if...

Getting Started Guide

Contact a Trane dealer near you

FAQs

Contact a local dealer

We’re here to help