The cost of heating repair can range from under $100 to thousands of dollars, but how is it determined? In 2024 dollars, the average cost to repair a furnace is $300 (according to Forbes); a high-end repair can potentially exceed $1,200.Âą However, replacing a blower motor or heat exchanger can be much more expensive than that.Â
If you need a furnace repair, chances are you’re wondering why HVAC repair services are so expensive. To help answer this, we’ll break down how the cost of heating repair is determined. Any of the following may impact the price of a repair:
- Type of Furnace
- Part(s) That Need to Be Replaced
- Quality of Parts
- Accessibility of Your Heater’s Components
- Labor
- Emergency Service Fees
- Age of the Furnace
- Type of Furnace: The type of system helps determine what a repair costs. Electric furnaces are generally less expensive to repair than gas, oil, or propane models. The average cost to repair a heat pump is slightly higher than a furnace, but the longer average lifespan of a heat pump is one consideration when switching to one (aside from the higher installation cost).
- Part(s) That Need to Be Replaced: If your heating system needs new parts, the cost of a repair is largely determined by the price of the part you need. For example, a blower motor can cost $2,000 to replace (as low as $150 to repair) while a new heat exchanger or draft inducer motor can cost $1,500. A new ignitor can cost up to $250. If a gas valve can be repaired, you may spend as little as $75.Âą
- Quality of Parts: Generic parts tend to be much cheaper than high-quality OEM parts built specifically for your furnace. A contractor can install a lesser-quality part to reduce the cost of service. The downsides can include reduced equipment performance, additional repairs and breakdowns, and shortened longevity.
- Accessibility of Your Heater’s Components: How accessible a faulty part is can help a contractor determine the cost of a heating repair. If it’s relatively easy to access, less labor is involved. However, if the parts to be repaired or replaced are hard to reach, then the repair cost can be much higher.
- Labor: An HVAC repair service company can set a labor rate based on its years of experience, the complexity of the job, how far they have to travel, or the cost of overhead. Standard labor fees can range from $80 to $150 per hour.² Multiply the number of hours the job takes to determine the total labor charge on top of the cost of parts and materials you’re billed for.
- Emergency Service Fees: Most HVAC contractors charge extra fees to provide emergency repairs outside their regular business hours. Emergency fees can be double or triple that of a contractor’s normal hourly rate. However, some contractors charge a lower flat rate fee to come to your home after hours or on the weekend.
- Age of the Furnace: HVAC companies don’t necessarily scale their repair fee structure based on your heater’s age. However, older parts are often more expensive due to their scarcity (if they’re available at all) and can be difficult to replace. Therefore, the cost of repairing an older model can be quite high.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How Can I Reduce the Cost of Furnace Repairs?
- Is a Heating Repair Worth It?
- Can I Repair My Furnace to Save?
How Can I Reduce the Cost of Furnace Repairs?
Bargaining with your HVAC repair service provider probably isn’t an option. Nevertheless, you can reduce the cost of repairs by scheduling routine maintenance. The tasks performed can prevent serious problems and avoid high expenses. Using warranty coverage can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Obtaining multiple quotes from reputable contractors can help make the best choice with the best value.
Is a Heating Repair Worth It?
A repair is worthwhile if your furnace is only a few years old. However, if your furnace is nearly 15 years old and fixing it costs as much as purchasing a new unit, replace it. The system will likely need more repairs soon. A new furnace avoids paying for more repairs and can lower your utility bills by conforming to today’s energy efficiency standards.
Can I Repair My Furnace to Save?
Obtaining the correct parts on your own can be challenging. Plus, a DIY furnace repair is dangerous, potentially illegal, and can void the manufacturer’s warranty. Hiring a professional is the best way to save on heating repair as it avoids costly mistakes and a variety of hazards and complications.
Contact Sky To Schedule Heating RepairÂ
A leading HVAC repair services company in Portland, Sky Heating & Air Conditioning is available 24/7 to address any furnace emergency. Our goals are to ensure your satisfaction, maintain your comfort and safety, and keep repair costs affordable. When they arrive promptly at your home, our technicians fully evaluate your heating system, diagnose the problem, and provide a quote on the cost of heating repair before starting. They’re always focused on long-term solutions. Financing options are available when replacing a heating system.Â
To request emergency service or schedule furnace repair or replacement in the Portland area, contact us online or call (503) 744-6401.
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