Verdict
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The rules behind the verdict
- $5,000 rule: age × repair cost. Over $5,000 points to replacement.
- 50% rule: a repair costing more than half of replacement points to replacement.
- Remaining life: equipment past about 75% of its typical lifespan is a weaker candidate for big repairs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the $5,000 rule for repair or replace?
Multiply the equipment's age in years by the repair cost. If the result is over $5,000, replacing is usually the better value. It is most often used for air conditioners and furnaces.
What is the 50% rule?
If a repair costs more than half the price of replacement, replacement usually makes more sense, especially when the equipment is past the middle of its expected life.
How long do AC units, furnaces and roofs last?
Typical lifespans are about 10–15 years for central AC and heat pumps, 15–20 years for furnaces, 20–30 years for architectural shingle roofs and 10–15 years for garage door openers.