According to HomeAdvisor.com, the average furnace repair bill is about $300, 2 with repairs reportedly as low as around $65, and up to $1500 on the higher end. Repairs can be as simple as replacing an inexpensive flame sensor to replacing a major component such as the blower assembly or heat exchanger.
While furnaces can last longer with proper maintenance, they often become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns as they age. Repairing a 15-year-old furnace can provide a temporary solution, but it may be a better long-term investment to consider replacing it.
The furnace repair costs in the Southern California area vary according to the repair needed. It can range anywhere from $100 to $200 to as high as $2,000-$3,000.
A heat exchanger replacement is often one of the most costly repairs in a furnace, and the expense can sometimes rival that of installing a new furnace. Typical replacement costs vary widely but can easily reach several thousand dollars, especially if labor costs are factored in.
One of the most common furnace problems is a malfunctioning thermostat. A sure sign your thermostat isn't working properly is if your fan is constantly running. This will cause your thermostat battery to run, and cause your furnace to work inefficiently.
The Average Furnace Lifespan
A well-maintained furnace can last at least 15 to 20 years, but completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend its life even longer.
If your furnace's problems continue, contact an HVAC expert. Also, if you notice discoloration when you check the pilot light, get professional help. If there are cold spots in your home, even though hot air is coming out of the air vents, the issue could be different from your furnace not working.
While there's no such thing as furnace or boiler replacement insurance, homeowners insurance may cover the cost to replace your furnace or boiler if it's damaged or destroyed by a covered peril.
Can I Fix My Furnace Myself? Yes, simple tasks like changing the air filter or resetting the circuit breaker are safe DIY options. For complex issues, consult a licensed HVAC professional.
If your furnace is 20 years old, it might be better to replace it now so it doesn't break down on the coldest day of the year. If it breaks when it's 0 degrees out, then you're no longer in a position to comfortably shop, consider options, and make a planned purchase.
The average cost of an HVAC service call is about $100 to $250, depending on the problem. The total hourly rate for an HVAC technician ranges from $65 to $150+ per hour, with additional parts costing anywhere from $40 to over $1000.
A furnace inspection costs $100 on average, but prices can range from $50 on the low end to $300 or more. You can save on the cost of furnace inspections by scheduling in the off-season or if you're heating a smaller home, while bigger furnaces and oil furnaces in particular cost more to inspect.
Most regular furnace repairs take between 1-4 hours to complete, but for some, it can take much longer. Simple problems like replacing a thermostat or ignitor may only take a qualified professional 30-60 minutes.
Ask twenty professional HVAC contractors the question, “How Much Does A New Furnace Cost?” and you'll probably get the same answer... “It depends.” On average, the cost of a new furnace can range from $2,000 - $14,2001. However, factors like furnace efficiency, type, size, and much more can impact this range.
Since the average cost of a new furnace can be around $5,000 – $5,500, a $2,000 repair is usually a good time to think about replacement. Any repair that nears 30% of the furnace's value is probably a sign that you should replace it, especially if it's 10 years or older.
When technicians pass the licensing exam, they are deemed fully knowledgeable in the HVAC field. Handymen won't have an HVAC license, which means they may not even possess adequate training to successfully work on your heating or cooling system.
Furnace Age
The age of your system is the first factor to consider. The average lifespan of a furnace is 15-20 years; after that the system will start to fail more often. If your furnace is 10 years old or less, repairs should be effective. If it has reached 12 years or more, it's time to consider replacement.
A well-maintained furnace can last up to 20 years, but issues become more likely after 10 years. With proper care, you can expect an additional 5 to 10 years of functionality, though warranties often expire by year 12. Beyond 15 years or without maintenance, consider planning for a new furnace.
A furnace inspection costs an average of $80 to $100. Your cost may increase if more furnace repairs are needed, or based on the specifics of your HVAC system. If detrimental issues are uncovered, you'll be quoted for the repair or potential replacement of your HVAC equipment.
Typical furnace maintenance costs range from $75 to $200 for a standard inspection and tune-up, depending on the service provider and region. This service often includes filter checks, cleaning, safety inspections, and minor adjustments. Comprehensive maintenance plans or more in-depth repairs may cost more.
Apply for a grant
The Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income Americans with heating and cooling expenses. Apart from small grants, LIHEAP offices also help consumers find resources to help pay for the cost of replacing furnaces and air conditioners.
If your furnace turns on but no heat is produced, there may be a problem with the fuel supply or the ignition system. If something is stopping your furnace from receiving gas, there is no fuel to combust so the furnace will not create any heat. The furnace turns on but no heat comes out.
The average gas furnace lifespan is 15 to 20 years. They can last longer, and they can fail earlier, depending on the quality of the unit to begin with, proper installation, and how well they've been maintained.