My house is 12 years old and during my annual inspection this week the technician tells me my a/c unit is about to die. It's a Carrier system and I noticed the outdoor unit (compressor?) was pretty loud last summer. I recently replaced the blower motor on my furnace and it seems to be operating just fine. Regardless, the technician tells me I probably ought to replace the entire system, a/c and furnace, since they can offer me a better deal for the two together. I can't help but wonder if the furnace is just fine and I should let it go. In fact, when he inspected it last fall he noted how the heat exchange is in great shape, very clean, etc.

So, what are your thoughts on whether I should do both at the same time?

Also, he's trying to sell me on one of those UV air cleaners/sterilizers. It will cost an additional $495 for the unit and installation. Are these things really worthwhile or are they just a gimmick?

Thanks in advance for your answers!

((Also, he's trying to sell me on one of those UV air cleaners/sterilizers)) NOT worth it.

If you have the money buy a complete system if not just replace the A/C unit.

The choice is real simple.