Should You Repair or Replace Your HVAC Unit? A Kamloops Homeowner’s Guide
- Jul 2
- 4 min read
Should You Repair or Replace Your HVAC Unit? A Kamloops Homeowner’s Guide
If you live in Kamloops, you know how much we rely on our Home heating and Air Conditioning systems to stay comfortable on hot summer days and cold winter nights. But when your system starts acting up or underperforming, it’s not always clear what to do next. Many homeowners face a common dilemma: do you call for a repair, or is it time to invest in a full replacement?
This article will walk you through the signs to watch for, what to consider from a financial perspective, and how to make the right decision for both your home and household budget.
Understanding Your Household’s HVAC System
First of all, HVAC is an acronym that stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. Your household system is a collection of specialized equipment that ideally keeps your home at a comfortable temperature year-round. In Kamloops, a typical system might include a furnace, air conditioner or heat pump, along with the ductwork that moves the warm or cool air throughout your home.
The average HVAC system realistically lasts between 15 to 20 years, but our regional climate can actually speed up wear and tear. Our dusty summer winds, frigid winter nights, and fluctuating seasonal temperatures can all take their toll. Not only that, but many homeowners don’t invest in regular preventative maintenance for their systems, which can contribute to the system breaking down sooner than expected.
Signs You Should Consider Repairing Your HVAC System
Not every HVAC issue means you need a full system overhaul. Don't be fooled by those “other guys” that push a replacement . Sometimes, a simple repair is all that’s needed. This is especially true if your system is relatively new and otherwise well-maintained. We have an approach that anything can be repaired no matter the age, it just becomes a point where the customer may lose “peace of mind” or reliability. We treat all our clients with our best interest and not just a sale.
Here are some signs a repair might be the right choice:
Your HVAC system is under 15 years old
You’ve kept up with regular maintenance
The issue is minor, such as a replaceable part, worn motor, or malfunctioning thermostat
You need some time to plan and budget a replacement
This is your first breakdown in years
Local Kamloops tip: We often see A/C units fail during early summer heatwaves. In many cases, it’s just a worn-out fan motor or bad capacitor. These are issues that are straightforward to address and can extend the life of your system.
Signs It’s Time for a Replacement System
While HVAC system repairs can be budget-friendly in the short term, they’re not always the best long-term solution. There are times when replacing or upgrading your HVAC system is the smarter move, especially if the system is aging or not energy efficient.
Watch for these red flags:
Your system is 15+ years old
You’ve needed multiple repairs in the past few years
Your utility bills are steadily increasing
Your home has hot and cold spots, or it never feels “just right”
It’s becoming harder (or more expensive) to find replacement parts
You’re planning a major renovation or resale on your home
Local insight: Older homes in neighbourhoods like the West End or North Shore may still be running outdated systems that weren’t designed for modern energy standards or our increasingly intense climate.
Repair vs. Replace: Cash Considerations
Of course, in a time when many Canadians are struggling to keep up with their bills, a full HVAC replacement may not be at the top of their list. While a system repair might be cheaper up front, it’s important to look at the full picture. It’s important to consider energy efficiency and the potential for future (costly) breakdowns.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Minor furnace or air conditioning system repair: $150–$500
Major system repair (broken compressor, blower motor): $800–$1,500
Full replacement (furnace or A/C): $4,000–$8,000+
Keep in mind that newer systems are built to be highly energy efficient, which will mean lower monthly bills on an ongoing basis. Plus, there are attractive government rebates available for energy-efficient HVAC system upgrades. Both FortisBC and BC Hydro both offer rebate programs that can help offset thousands of dollars in costs.
Questions to Ask Before Making a Decision
Still on the fence about what to do? Ask yourself:
Do I have a budget for HVAC work?
How long do I plan to stay in this home?
Have I been doing regular maintenance, or is the system in rough shape?
Is my current HVAC system properly sized for my space?
Am I interested in upgrading to a smarter, more energy-efficient system?
These questions can help you get clear on whether a repair is worth it, or if a replacement will give you greater peace of mind and long-term value.
When to Call a Kamloops HVAC Expert
Every HVAC system, home, and homeowner is unique. The best way to make the right decision for your home is to get professional advice from a HVAC expert who understands the local climate and building code requirements.
A local HVAC technician can:
Accurately identify the issue
Provide a detailed analysis of repair vs. replacement
Help you understand energy efficiency ratings and specific rebate options
Offer recommendations for your home’s specific layout and heating/cooling needs
Final Thoughts: Knowing When to Hold On and When to Upgrade
When your HVAC system starts acting up, most homeowners will inevitably hope a quick fix will do the trick. There are times when that will be enough. However, it’s important to know when it’s time to move on from an old or unreliable system. Making a change can save you money, reduce stress, and relieve discomfort in the long run.
Whether you choose to replace or repair your HVAC system, knowledge is power. With the help of a trusted HVAC professional in Kamloops, you can get the information you need to make the right decision based on your personal needs and budget.
Need Help Making the Call?
Book a free consultation visit with our Kamloops HVAC team today. We will assess your current HVAC system and walk you through your options. Our goal is to provide honest advice to guide our clients towards making the right decision for their unique situation.