Should I Repair or Replace?
What to Consider Between Repairing or Replacing Your System
A common question our professional technicians in Nampa ID and Meridian ID get asked a lot is, “Should I repair my system or is it better to replace it?” The quick answer is, “It depends...” and we know that’s not the response you want to hear. However, more information is needed before providing an honest and accurate answer.
Here are some of the things to consider when deciding between repairing or replacing your furnace or air conditioner in the Treasure Valley:
- Age of Current System/Cost of the Repair: The starting points are knowing how old your system is and how much the repair will cost. You should also consider how often the system has broken down over the years, what those repairs were, and how much they cost you to fix. As systems age, components within the system will wear out, and they tend to break down more often. Over time, it just doesn’t make sense to keep repairing it, and the parts needed may become more challenging to source and may become more expensive because of it.
- Maintenance History: How consistently your system has had maintenance services (commonly called tune-ups) will factor into the life expectancy. Systems that are maintained consistently not only last longer but will run more efficiently and breakdown less often.
- Performance/Effciency: Consider how well your system has been meeting your comfort needs and how much it costs to run. Suffering in too hot or too cold rooms or having wide swings in temperatures is not the norm in Nampa ID and Meridian ID. We get the highs and lows from all 4 seasons here in Idaho, and your system should be able to maintain a consistent temperature no matter what’s happening outside, and be able to maintain it throughout your home. Furthermore, your utility costs should be kept in check. If you see dramatic spikes on your bill, this should be investigated.
- Technology Advancements: It’s important to understand that the technology of systems has changed a lot over the last 8-10 years. Systems today are built for higher effciency to reduce energy use (and energy costs). Additionally, there have been major changes in the refrigerants used in cooling systems. Systems built before 2010 used R-22 coolant, which has been phased out. This makes repairing a system using this type of refrigerant more expensive and some cases impossible. In 2025, another change in refrigerant went into effect. With every mandate change to refrigerant types, sourcing parts for old systems becomes harder and more expensive. This drives up the cost of repairs and depending on availability may make the system unrepairable.
So, here’s our advice;
When faced with a repair bill, and it’s not the first one, or your system is over ten years old, you need to get more information. Getting replacement information in Nampa ID and Meridian ID is easy and free! We offer No-Cost, No-Obligation Quotes that will provide the information you need to make an informed decision. Plus, we frequently offer replacement offers and can discuss financing with you too. Ask us about it during your replacement consultation!
Our Commitment to Your Comfort Since 1961
We've served the Treasure Valley for decades and have thousands of happy customers! Call us (208) 466-6910 and let us show you why we’re the best local HVAC company around, and check out what some of our clients had to say about us on Google!
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Lou & BonnieChristopher was our serviceman for the fall furnace checkup. He is a delightful, very personable and thorough technician. Thanks Chris for your effectiant service.
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DougWe can’t say enough about the service we get from J&D. They keep us up an running year round. , Noah our technician, is most excellent. He knows us and our system. It’s like having a friend come for a visit. Highly recommend J&D for anyone looking for an ethical, locally owned business. We had Ryan this time… same evaluation. Great service as always. Just had our Fall tune up. Had a new tech, Christopher, just new to his job, but seemed competent and professional. Took the time to explain what he did and let us know the system was working well.
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SandraWe've been using J&D Heating & Cooling for several years and they always do a great job. The crew that installed our new unit were very professional.
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BeckyVery knowledgeable. He took the time to explain the numbers he took from my furnace inspection.
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E.E.Yesterday, J&D performed the Fall maintenance on the cooling and heating system in my home. I hadn't met Dusten Winkler before but found him very a personable individual who went promptly to work. I appreciate efficiency and congratulate J&D Heating, Cooling and Water for their selection of a fine employee.