How much is a heat exchanger for a furnace?

Author: Prof. Carmel Jaskolski  |  Last update: Thursday, May 8, 2025

How Much Does a Heat Exchanger Replacement Cost? Heat exchanger prices depend on several factors, quality, size, energy efficiency, and whether it is a gas or electric furnace. The average cost of replacing your exchanger is about $1,500. However, it can cost as little as $500 or as much as $3,500.

Is it worth replacing a heat exchanger in a furnace?

Furnaces have an average lifespan of around 10 years, and most exchangers tend to go out around this time. If your furnace is close to this 10-year mark, a new furnace is likely a better investment. If your furnace is relatively new, a new heat exchanger may be worth it to avoid early furnace replacement.

How much does it cost to replace a heat exchanger?

The good news here is that a heat exchanger can be replaced, however, the actual cost of replacing a heat exchanger is at least £500, especially for top brands like Worcester Bosch, Viessmann & Ideal.

How do I know if my furnace heat exchanger is bad?

However, there are some common signs that can indicate potential damage. These include observing cracks or corrosion on the heat exchanger, detecting unusual smells or odors when the furnace is running, such as a strong metallic or burning scent, and experiencing frequent furnace shutdowns or malfunctions.

How long should a furnace heat exchanger last?

While heat exchangers are typically manufactured to last between 10 – 20 years, many factors can accelerate the process of heat exchanger failure.

How Much Does A Furnace Cost?

Do I need a new furnace if the heat exchanger is cracked?

Replacing Your Entire Furnace

Cracked heat exchangers typically occur in furnaces that are more than 15 years old, and the exchanger has been weakened over time due to corrosion. Even if the exchanger is replaced, an old furnace will soon need additional repairs or even full replacement.

What are the symptoms of a faulty heat exchanger?

What are the symptoms of a damaged heat exchanger?
  • Yellow or distorted flames. When the boiler is on, the burner flame should be steady and blue in colour. ...
  • Leaking water. A crack can cause the heat exchanger to leak water. ...
  • Carbon monoxide alarm is sounding. ...
  • Odd smells. ...
  • Banging or whistling noises.

Can I replace a heat exchanger myself?

And remember, trying to replace a heat exchanger without professional assistance can pose potential hazards such as carbon monoxide poisoning and other safety risks.

How much does a new furnace cost?

You should expect to spend between $3,800 and $12,00 on a new furnace, including both the unit and installation costs. Factors influencing the price include the type of furnace (gas, electric, or oil), the unit's efficiency rating, and the complexity of the installation.

What happens when heat exchanger fails?

Heat exchangers keep your home's clean air separate from the toxic air used in combustion and exchange heat between them. A failing or cracked heat exchanger can cause toxic gases–such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide–to be released and mixed into the air that is distributed to your home.

How much is labor to replace a heat exchanger?

It can range between $1,000-$4,000 for parts and labor, with an average cost of $2,000. Learn how this heat exchanger cost breaks down and how to identify the crucial signs it's cracked and needs replacement.

How many hours does it take to replace a heat exchanger?

Because replacing a heat exchanger can take up to eight hours or longer, it represents the bulk of the cost. If your warranty is expired, and you would need to pay both parts and labor for a new heat exchanger, look further into whether a full unit replacement would be more advantageous for you.

How to estimate the cost of a heat exchanger?

The popular method is to use the cost per area of the heat exchangers which is determined using an overall heat transfer coefficient U from A =Q/UΔT m but the challenge with this method is that obtaining the heat exchanger areas can be complex.

What is the most expensive part to replace in a furnace?

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.

Why are heat exchangers so expensive?

And because it can take up to 8 hours or longer to replace a heat exchanger, the labor itself is the bulk of the repair cost.

What is the most reliable gas furnace brand?

The 5 Best Furnace Brands
  • Carrier Furnace: Best Warranty.
  • Lennox Furnace: Best Company Reputation.
  • Bryant Furnace: Best for Durability.
  • Trane Furnace: Most Years of Experience.
  • Amana Furnace: Best for Efficiency.

Does homeowners insurance cover furnaces?

Your base homeowners policy will cover many types of damage to your furnace. An extra endorsement known as Equipment Breakdown Coverage (EBC) will give you additional coverage for certain types of mechanical or electrical failure.

What time of year is cheapest to replace furnace?

For people taking a proactive approach, doing a furnace replacement during the “shoulder seasons” of spring and autumn may offer lower prices, shorter lead times, and a better selection of products and service appointment availability.

Should I replace a 20 year old furnace?

Furnaces 20 years old or older become increasingly inefficient over time and can crack and leak, putting you and your family in danger. If your furnace is between 16 and 20 years old and constantly breaking down, then you should strongly consider having it replaced.

Will a furnace still run with a cracked heat exchanger?

Although a furnace will continue to heat your home even with a cracked heat exchanger, it is not safe to continue using your furnace. Using a cracked heat exchanger allows for certain toxic gases to escape from the furnace including carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, and sulfur dioxide.

How much does a heat exchanger unit cost?

Typically, new heat exchangers can range anywhere between £400 - £600, so it often makes more sense to buy a brand-new boiler, especially if your current one is an older inefficient one with an expired warranty.

How do I know if my heat exchanger is broken?

Because the heat exchanger is made out of metal, as it is heated cracks will expand/contract, and can cause rattling, popping, and/or banging noises. Presence of Carbon Monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless flammable gas which is toxic.

Is it worth repairing a heat exchanger?

The longer the damage remains, the more likely the heat exchanger will leak carbon monoxide, a potentially fatal odorless gas. It's necessary to contact a qualified HVAC professional to assess your heat exchanger's condition. Serious damage may warrant a total furnace replacement.

What causes a heat exchanger to go bad?

Clogged filters reduce the air flow that result in development of cracks inside the system. Other reasons for reduced air flow are the dirty fan blades, dirty duct work, and obstructed air vents. All of these factors can cause major damage to the heat exchanger.

Where is a heat exchanger located?

In a gas furnace, the heat exchanger is located close to the combustion chamber. In an electric furnace, it is located close to the coil. The heat exchanger is heated by the heat source and warms the air outside. From there, a blower fan distributes the heated air through the ducts.

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