So your AC is acting up—again.
The house feels muggy, the thermostat’s playing games, and now you’re faced with the age-old question: “Should I fix this thing, or just rip the Band-Aid off and get a new one?”
Well, say hello to your new favorite HVAC cheat code:
The $5,000 Rule.
It’s a simple formula pros use to help you figure out if you should repair or replace your current HVAC system.
Let’s break it down (no upsells, no nonsense—just straight-up value you can actually use).
What Is the $5,000 Rule?
It goes like this:
👉 Take the age of your system and multiply it by the cost of the repair.
If the total is less than $5,000 → Repair it.
If it’s more than $5,000 → It might be time to replace.
Let’s do the math:
Your system is 12 years old
The repair estimate is $450
12 x 450 = $5,400
That’s over the $5,000 threshold.
→ Time to consider a new unit.
Why This Rule Works
This rule isn’t magic—it’s math. It balances two key factors:
The age of your system (older = less efficient + more prone to fail again)
The repair cost (is it worth investing in something that’s near the end of its life?)
It’s a quick way to help you:
Avoid throwing good money at bad equipment
Budget for a replacement before you’re stuck in a heatwave
Understand what’s “reasonable” when it comes to HVAC repair pricing
Warning Signs Your AC Might Be Ready for Retirement
Even without doing the math, here are a few red flags that your system might be more goodbye than get-well-soon:
It’s 10-15+ years old
It runs constantly but never cools well
Repairs are becoming a regular thing
Your energy bills keep creeping up
It’s making strange noises, smells, or leaks
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to look beyond the Band-Aid fix.
👉 Talk to Stacy, CoolNow’s AI assistant! She’ll help you book a FREE inspection
Repair Costs vs. Replacement Costs
We know budget is everything—especially when it comes to unexpected expenses.
Let’s compare:
| Repair Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Capacitor Replacement | $150 – $400 |
| Refrigerant Recharge | $300 – $800 |
| Blower Motor | $500 – $1,000 |
| Compressor Replacement | $1,300 – $2,500 |
| Full System Replacement | $4,500 – $10,000 |
If you’re about to drop $2,000 on a major repair for a 12-year-old unit, chances are you’ll be back at it again next season (and the one after that).
Replacing once can be smarter—and cheaper—than repairing twice.
The Efficiency Factor: It’s Not Just About Cost
Here’s the thing most homeowners forget: Older units cost more to run.
They guzzle electricity. They work harder to keep you cool. And they laugh in the face of your utility bill goals.
Installing a new, high-efficiency unit can:
Lower your monthly energy bills (up to 30% savings)
Improve indoor air quality
Run quieter and more consistently
Boost your home’s resale value
Qualify for rebates or tax credits
Repair or Replace? Ask Yourself These 5 Questions:
How old is your system?
If it’s over 10 years, you’re in the “watch it closely” zone.How often does it break down?
Twice in the last year? Red flag.Is your home cooling evenly and efficiently?
Hot spots and inconsistent airflow are clues something bigger is brewing.Are parts still available?
Older systems can be tricky (and expensive) to fix due to outdated components.Do you want peace of mind, or short-term fixes?
No judgment—just something to consider before that summer heat rolls in.
Financing Makes Replacing Less Scary
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to shell out $10K all at once.
With CoolNow™ Financing, we offer:
✅ $0 down
✅ No credit required
✅ Next-day installation
✅ Flexible monthly payments
You get comfort today, and pay over time—without torching your savings.
When in Doubt, Do the Math
The $5,000 Rule isn’t perfect—but it’s powerful. It helps you make informed decisions without the stress, second-guessing, or being sold on something you don’t need.
Remember:
If your system is young and the fix is minor → go ahead and repair.
If it’s old and repairs are stacking up → it’s time to explore replacement.
And hey, if you still feel stuck, that’s what we’re here for.
We’ll walk you through it like a friend—no scare tactics, no salesy vibes.