The choice to repair or replace your furnace impacts your comfort and wallet. A furnace replacement is a significant investment that may cause homeowners to delay.
However, continued repairs of inefficient or underperforming systems can increase costs while jeopardizing your comfort. That’s why it’s often best to get professional advice on the next steps for your malfunctioning furnace.
In this blog post, the HVAC experts at Polestar Plumbing, Heating & Cooling compare the cost of furnace repair and replacement to help homeowners make the best choice for their comfort and finances.
Average Furnace Repair Cost
Furnace repair costs can vary greatly depending on the severity of the issue. Common furnace issues include:
- Flame sensor repair: $75–$250
- Ignitor repair: $150–$300
- Electronic repairs: $200–$600
- Gas valve repairs: $200–$1,000
- Draft inducer motor repairs: $200–$1,500
- Blower motor repairs: $400–$1,500
- Heat exchanger repairs: $500–$1,500
Factors That Influence Repair Costs
Many factors can impact furnace repair costs. The most important are:
- Component costs: While simple parts are inexpensive, major components like heat exchangers are more expensive.Â
- Component availability: If your older furnace requires a discontinued, rare, or back-ordered part, the cost can rise. Shipping costs and seasonal demand can also drive the price of parts up.
- Labor: The quicker and more straightforward the job, the lower the labor costs. However, the price will increase if your repair is complex and labor-intensive.
Is Furnace Repair Worth It?
Since repairs are less expensive than replacement, we recommend repairing your furnace if your system is:
- Under the 10- to 15-year lifespan
- Operating efficiently
- Has localized or minor issues
- Safe and works without safety concerns
Average Furnace Replacement Cost
Much like repairs, the furnace replacement cost in Kansas City can vary based on system size, model, efficiency, and more. The average cost for a modern furnace is:
- Gas furnace: $4,000–$9,500
- Electric furnace: $2,000–$7,000
Factors That Influence HVAC Replacement Costs
HVAC replacement costs vary greatly due to several factors. The six most important factors are fuel type, size, efficiency, brand, installation, and rebates.
Fuel Type
An electric furnace is much more affordable than a natural gas system. However, natural gas is cheaper to operate. Therefore, homeowners considering HVAC repair versus replacement need to weigh the initial costs with the operating expenses.
Unit Size
Furnaces are measured in British Thermal Units, or BTUs, with 12,000 BTUs equaling 1 ton. The larger the home, the more BTUs are needed and the more expensive the system. For example, a 1,000-square-foot home needs 30,000–60,000 BTUs, which equals a 3- to 5-ton furnace, while a larger home may need a 12-ton furnace.Â
Efficiency Rating
The higher the efficiency of an HVAC unit, the more expensive it will be. This efficiency is measured in SEER for cooling and HSFP for heating for air conditioners and heat pumps. A furnace will be measured in AFUE and should be above 90% for maximum performance.
Brand
HVAC brands all have their own pricing, with some being more affordable than others. However, it’s important to remember that installation quality is as essential as the system brand.
Labor & Installation Complexity
Labor and installation make up a significant portion of your furnace replacement cost. However, if the process is simple, with minimal adjustments or changes, it will be less expensive.Â
Rebates
There are many incentives currently available for homeowners installing energy-efficient HVAC systems. Choosing one that qualifies can offset the cost of your replacement.
When Is It Better to Replace Your Furnace?
Our team recommends replacement if your furnace is:
- Over 10 years old
- InefficientÂ
- Unreliable
- Expensive to repair
- Unsafe to operate
Choose Polestar Plumbing, Heating & CoolingÂ
When considering repairing or replacing your furnace, trust Polestar for knowledgeable advice. Our team has over 40 years of experience in heating services and can help you make the best choice for your home and family. We offer same-day service and free replacement estimates to help you restore your comfort quickly.
Contact us today to request furnace repair or replacement for your Kansas City home.
