Depends what you're replacing and what you replace it with. If it's a multistage/modulating/inverter system, get it fixed. If is a builder grade system, replace it for $4000-$6000.

Hi, Rose,

The life expectancy of a HVAC system consisting of a heat pump or air conditioner is generally around 15 +/- years. The life expectancy of a furnace-only system is typically longer--up to 20 years. Your system is 17 years old. I recommend you replace the system rather than replacing only the air handler fan. If you spend $1,000 on the fan now, you're likely to end up replacing the entire system in a year or two.

We’re wondering whether we should just replace the blower fan or the entire system. We expect to live here maybe 5-8 more years before moving to a continuing care community.

It's a gamble, replacing the blower fan may work in your favor and may be all that's needed for how much longer you plan to own this home.

You may replace this blower fan and maybe something else breaks. (that's the gamble) The other thing to consider right now... if that blower fan is available you have that choice. In terms of getting HVAC equipment is rather spotty. You may have to make concessions as many brands can't be had or are extremely limited choices right now.

Just because the furnace heat exchanger warranty is only 20 years... furnaces can last up to 30 years or longer in some areas. The common reason why they are replaced is typically the situation you are in right now.

If you have confidence in your HVAC repair company... what do they say? Have you been maintaining the system all these years?

I service the Katy, Texas area.

You need to provide some additional information in order to provide good advice. Is this blower part of an air handler or a furnace? If it is an air handler is it a heat pump or do you have a separate heating system? Can you post the brand and model number of the equipment? This will indicate if the blower has multiple stages and/or variable speed. It will also give an idea whether $1000 for a repair and $10-15K for replacement are fair estimates.

In your area the cooling season is about 3 months. So if this is an AC air handler it probably does not have a lot of hours of operation. If that is the case, then replacing the blower may be a good choice. I suspect this equipment uses R22 refrigerant which is no longer being manufactured and has become very expensive. This is something else you need to consider. If this is a furnace or heat pump, and you plan to live in the house at least 5 more years, then you are better off putting the $1000 towards a new system.

@mike_home I’ve never heard the term air handler. It’s a straightforward central AC, with no connection to the heating system (which is FHW) except for the thermostat. There’s one of those cube shaped units outside the house and a unit in the attic. There’s an intake vent on our lower level but otherwise all the vents blowing cold air are on the upper level. It’s a simple split entry aka raised ranch with a finished lower level. As far as I know, the blower only runs at one speed, but we’ve never had a thermostat with speed settings. I think it’s a Trane but I’d have to check in the attic to be sure.

It’s a straightforward central AC, with no connection to the heating system (which is FHW) except for the thermostat. There’s one of those cube shaped units outside the house and a unit in the attic. There’s an intake vent on our lower level but otherwise all the vents blowing cold air are on the upper level.

It sounds like replacing the blower fan is really all you need, given this new information.

There's risks in that but I think the risk is rather low. Especially given how much longer you plan to own this home.