1. What is the $5000 Replacement Rule?

The $5000 rule is a common guideline used in the HVAC industry to determine whether to repair or replace a residential HVAC system. If the product of your system's age (in years) and the repair cost exceeds $5000, replacement is typically recommended.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( Age \) — Age of HVAC system in years
• \( Repair Cost \) — Estimated repair cost in dollars

Explanation: This rule accounts for both the diminishing returns of repairing older systems and the increasing likelihood of future repairs.

3. Importance of the Rule

Details: This rule helps homeowners make cost-effective decisions about their HVAC systems, balancing repair costs against the benefits of newer, more efficient systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your system's age in years and the estimated repair cost in dollars. The calculator will determine whether repair or replacement is more cost-effective based on the $5000 rule.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the $5000 rule always accurate?
A: It's a guideline, not an absolute rule. Other factors like system efficiency, maintenance history, and future energy savings should also be considered.

Q2: What's the average lifespan of an HVAC system?
A: Typically 15-20 years, but proper maintenance can extend this while poor maintenance can shorten it.

Q3: Should I always replace if the product exceeds $5000?
A: Not necessarily. If your system is well-maintained and the repair is minor, repairing might still make sense.

Q4: Does this account for energy efficiency improvements?
A: No, the rule is purely cost-based. Newer systems often have significant efficiency improvements that could justify earlier replacement.

Q5: How accurate should my repair estimate be?
A: For best results, get a written estimate from a qualified HVAC technician rather than guessing.