Explain repair vs replace to a homeowner
Never paste: Customer addresses, phone numbers or gate/lockbox codes, card numbers, photos showing house numbers or family members, or the customer's financing info.
When to use it
When the system is old and the repair is big.
The prompt
Copy this, then replace everything in [brackets].
Help me explain repair vs replace to a homeowner.
Equipment: [type, age, condition]
Repair: [what, approx. price]
Replacement: [what we'd recommend, rough range]
Other factors: [efficiency, refrigerant, history, comfort complaints]
Plain English, honest, both options fairly, no pressure. Under 150 words. End with 'What matters most to you?'Before / after
Before: ‘You need a new system.’ Homeowner gets defensive.
After (example output):
Option 1: repair the compressor for about $2,400. That fixes today’s problem, but the system is 18 years old and other parts are near the end too. Option 2: replace it. More up front, but new warranty, lower bills, and no more surprise repairs. Both are reasonable. What matters most to you: lowest cost today, or not worrying about it for 15 years?
Tips
- Let the homeowner choose. You’re presenting, not deciding.
- Give the AI your readings and findings. It writes better than it diagnoses.
- You’re the tech. If the AI’s answer doesn’t match what you see, trust what you see.
- Review every draft before you send it. You’re accountable for what goes out.