Furnace repair prices can range widely depending on the part needed and labor rates charged by contractors. One way to save money on furnace repair expenses is to schedule a pre-winter furnace tune-up before the deep chill arrives.
Heating accounts for 42% of household energy bills, so regular furnace maintenance can save on repair costs while prolonging life expectancy.
Replacement costs for thermostats, blower motors, oil combustion chambers or draft inducer motors that malfunction can reach $2,000 or more; additional costly repairs include ignitor replacement, control or circuit board repair or gas valve replacement.
Furnace repair costs vary widely, and to save on expenses, consider a pre-winter furnace tune-up; check out Greeley’s go-to AC repair specialists for dependable AC and furnace services.
Thermostat repair
A thermostat is one of the most frequently neglected components, as its malfunction can lead to overheating or cycling on and off often, creating temperature inconsistency throughout your home.
Replacement thermostat costs typically fall within the $100 to $300 range for basic manual models; Wi-Fi-enabled and programmable thermostats may incur further expense.
Ignitor problems are another common HVAC concern that an HVAC technician can detect and address. Failure to maintain can result in dirt and grime clogging up an ignitor, leading to its breakdown or overheating; on average, it costs $150 to $500 for technicians to install new furnace ignitors.
Replace or repair other parts, including the flame sensor and heat exchanger, such as those that contain combustion fuel.
Blower motor repair
Furnace blower motors are among the more costly components to replace during furnace maintenance, typically costing approximately $400, depending on the blower type. ECM (electrically commutated motor) models tend to be more energy-efficient and quiet than their PSC (permanent split capacitor) counterparts.
Flame sensors and gas valves
A broken flame sensor could prevent your furnace from shutting off after fuel combustion has completed, potentially endangering family or pets nearby, while inefficiency caused by ineffective heat exchangers could significantly raise utility costs; furnace technicians can quickly diagnose any such issues and provide estimates of replacement costs immediately.
Faulty flame sensors prevent your burners from lighting, so this safety device must remain operational to remain effective and save lives. They also increase utility costs as they force your furnace to work harder – repair or replacement typically costs $75 to $200.
A gas valve manages the flow of gas that powers your furnace. When it malfunctions, this can be potentially dangerous. Luckily, however, repairs are typically straightforward; technicians typically complete them within 30 minutes for between $100 to $200 for new gas valves;
Gas valves should also be replaced when replacing flame sensors, adding approximately $75 more to overall repair bills in some instances; this safety feature stops gas flow once an igniter reaches an optimal temperature.
Control board repair
Furnace circuit boards control the heating, cooling and fan functions of your furnace. Because these boards are usually not accessible for DIY repairs or replacement, professionals should be trusted with repairs or installations.
Furnace circuit board repairs typically range between $500 to $700 in both parts and labor expenses for professional installations of new replacement parts (which start at approximately $200). In contrast, for advanced DIYers, buying generic control boards online may be less costly, but this may not always be the safest option.
Transformers are essential components in converting 120V from your home’s electricity source to 24V for use by furnaces. Replacement costs start as little as $20, but labor fees could rise as high as $150 to $300.
Choosing a contractor
HVAC contractors typically charge an hourly rate, typically ranging between $60 to $70 an hour on average for their services. This fee can increase during cold winter months or repairs that require special tools or difficult access locations; additionally, master HVAC technicians with multiple certifications often command higher hourly rates.
If you possess basic electrical knowledge and are comfortable working on AC units, replacing the capacitor yourself is possible; however, for safety’s sake, it would be advisable to hire professional assistance, as handling electrical components can be potentially hazardous.
Conclusion
If your furnace is showing symptoms of trouble, such as scraping noises, squeaking noises or banging noises, it’s time to call in professionals immediately. Such symptoms could indicate more serious issues, such as leaks or an inadequate heat exchanger system requiring immediate service.
Before deciding to repair or replace their furnace, homeowners should carefully consider their budget and the length of time they intend to stay in their current home.
At some point, investing in a new furnace with features and comfort tailored specifically for them could make more financial sense than trying to repair it.
