How Much Does a Typical Furnace Repair Cost?
October 17, 2017
Not knowing how much something is going to cost is always anxiety-inducing. It’s always reassuring to at least have a general idea of how much certain repairs will cost so that you can make the best decision about how you want to proceed.
Common Furnace Repairs
When a furnace breaks down, it’s generally for one of several reasons. The most frequent furnace problems occur due to:
- A broken thermostat
- Damaged fan motors, belts, and bearings
- Broken heat exchanger
- Clogged and dirty air filters
- Pilot and ignition control issues
- Improper equipment sizing
- Inconsistent (or nonexistent) maintenance
How Much Do Furnace Repairs Cost?
The cost of repairing your furnace varies widely and depends on a range of factors. For example, if you have an electric furnace, it’s typically easier and more cost-effective to repair than if you have a gas furnace. Replacing a thermostat isn’t very expensive, but a broken heat exchanger could set you back as much as $1,200! That’s why it’s important to prevent the need for repairs with regular maintenance. However, if the need arises for repairs, you should generally be prepared to spend anywhere from $150 to about $550.
How Much Does Replacing a Furnace Cost?
While minor repairs can still be relatively inexpensive, if the repairs required are major and your furnace is already reaching a decade or more in age, complete replacement is the better option. Although you will spend more upfront, over time your investment will be returned due to increased efficiency and better performance.
Here in the greater Sacramento region, the average replacement furnace costs around $6,500. However, it’s important to choose a high-efficiency furnace — not just the cheapest one. With a high AFUE (Annual Fuel Use Efficiency) rating for the furnace you select, you’ll get a lifetime of savings and will probably end up paying about $8,000-$10,000 initially.
Why Preventive Maintenance is Important
The least expensive furnace repair is the one you don’t have to get. So how can you prevent breakdowns and avoid paying for costly repairs? The answer lies in regular maintenance. If your furnace is tuned-up annually, the need for repairs is greatly diminished. So although you’ll spend some money on preventive maintenance visits from an HVAC technician, it will end up saving you money in the long-term.
At Brower Mechanical, whether you need furnace repairs, a replacement furnace or furnace maintenance for your Rocklin, CA area home, we can help. Our team of HVAC experts will make sure the job is done right the first time so that you can stay cozy and warm for the duration of the cold weather.
