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.
You may be able to improve efficiency by replacing a part, but if your furnace is 15+ years old, a new furnace will be more efficient and more cost-effective. You'll save money on repair bills and future energy bills. Learn about American Standard's Best Furnaces.
Furnace repair costs $317 on average. The cost depends on furnace type, which part needs repair, and contractor labor rates in your area, so the final price will range from $132 to $501. A cozy night in can quickly turn sour if your furnace decides to break down.
If the flame sensor fails, your furnace may not be able to start or may shut down shortly after starting. Common causes of flame sensor failure include corrosion, dirt buildup, or a broken wire. The gas valve controls the flow of gas to the furnace. If the gas valve fails, your furnace won't be able to produce heat.
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.
There are three primary types of furnaces: Gas furnaces have the shortest lifespan, at 15 to 20 years. Electric furnaces last 20 and 25 years on average. Boilers last 15 to 25 years, depending on the type and radiator equipment.
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.
Replacing a furnace is a labour-intensive undertaking and is pretty difficult. There are a large variety of factors that need to be considered and accounted for. It is never recommended to replace a furnace yourself as the appliance is a major investment and should be handled by professionals.
As furnaces age, all the parts within a furnace start to get dirty and worn down. When this happens, your furnace has to work harder to produce the same amount of heat as it did before. When your furnace has to work harder, it uses more utilities in the way of gas and electricity to run.
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.
A standard policy typically won't cover the cost to replace your furnace if there was a mechanical problem, but you may be able to add an equipment breakdown endorsement for an additional cost that may provide coverage.
4-8 hours. Furnace installation in a residential home usually takes 4-8 hours, depending on the complexity of the job. Additional time may need to be added to account for ductwork, electrical, or gas line modifications to properly match the new equipment.
Installation Entails More than Just the Furnace
For a gas-powered furnace, a contractor must set up a gas connection and vent. Installing an electric furnace requires running wiring, adding a circuit breaker, or perhaps updating an electrical panel. Holes are often drilled for pipes and wires.
Pilot flame color changes
A yellow flame is a clear sign that the gas is not burning properly. Dirty or partially blocked systems can produce this. It's also another sign that a call to your trusted HVAC contractor is needed to save money and keep you a bit safer.
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.
Some DIY Work Can Be Illegal
In California, installing a furnace or other major HVAC component requires pulling a building permit, which is issued by the city or county. A permit ensures a project is inspected and meets safety and structural standards.
Common noises such as rattling, popping, humming, and screeching are signs you need a new furnace. You may also want to consider switching from a furnace to another heating source such as boilers, heat pumps, or ductless mini-split systems to save money on your utility bills.
What is the average life of a residential furnace? A furnace that receives regular maintenance can last at least 15 to 20 years, but completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend the life of a furnace even longer.
Most furnace flame sensors cost less than $20, but if you opt to have a professional HVAC technician make the repair, you can expect to pay between $75 and $250. Need help replacing your flame sensor? Book an appointment with a local expert now.
While costs can vary, homeowners can typically expect the following range: Standard Blower Motors: These might cost between $400-700, excluding labor. Advanced Multi-Speed or Variable-Speed Motors: These are generally more expensive, with costs ranging between $650-1250, not including labor.
How Long Does A Furnace Last? Depending on when it was installed, a furnace can work reliably for 15 to 20 years – and likely more, if properly maintained. As it nears the 15-year mark, pay attention to signs of wear and tear, and monitor your bills for any irregularities.
With gas prices significantly lower than electricity, running a gas furnace is much more cost-effective than an electric furnace. Replacing a gas furnace ranges from $3,500 to $10,000, with an average cost of $7,000.
Energy Efficiency: Furnaces that are more than 15 years old are typically much less energy efficient than newer models. This means that they use more energy to produce the same amount of heat, leading to higher energy bills. A new, energy-efficient furnace can help to significantly reduce your energy costs.