What furnace repairs typically cost
- Service call and diagnosis: $100 to $250, often more on nights and weekends
- Ignitor or flame sensor: $150 to $400
- Thermostat replacement: $150 to $500
- Blower motor: $400 to $1,500
- Control board: $400 to $1,200
- Heat exchanger: $1,500 to $3,500, and often means full replacement
- Full furnace replacement: $3,000 to $8,000
These are typical industry ranges. Winter emergency calls usually land at the higher end, because demand peaks exactly when you need help most.
Warning signs your furnace is on its way out
It's more than 15 years old. Most furnaces last 15 to 20 years. Past that, parts fail more often and replacement becomes likely.
Strange noises. Banging, squealing or rattling when it starts up usually points to a failing motor, belt or ignitor.
Short cycling. If it turns on and off every few minutes, something is wrong with the thermostat, flame sensor or airflow.
Uneven heat or rising bills. Cold rooms and higher gas bills mean the furnace is working harder to do less.
A yellow flame or soot. A healthy gas flame is blue. Yellow flames or soot marks can signal a combustion problem. If you notice this, or your carbon monoxide alarm sounds, leave the house and call 911.
How to avoid a surprise heating bill
Have your furnace checked before the cold sets in, and replace the filter every one to three months. Make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors on every floor.
Then cover the repair cost itself. A home warranty with heating coverage turns a $3,000 to $8,000 risk into one predictable monthly payment and a flat service fee per claim. When the furnace quits, you make one call to our 24/7 claims line and a licensed technician comes out. Older furnaces qualify as long as they're working when the plan starts.
Call (833) 667-1589 before winter. New enrollments get the first 3 months free.