Imagine that it’s the middle of winter. Suddenly, your house goes from being toasty to becoming an icebox. After ruling out a power outage, you conclude that your furnace has stopped working. This guide will tell you what went wrong and how to fix it!
The Basics
First, ensure that anyone you contact for repair is equipped and qualified to service your furnace. Some brands may require special treatment.
Second, many modern furnaces have an LED light that blinks red or green. Before you start repairing, write down what that LED light is doing. The light will blink in a code indicating the problem. Record this before turning the power off. For example, the LED may blink several times, pause, and blink again several times. Record the sequence and the number of blinks.
Let’s look at what could be going wrong and what you can do about the problem. Even if you call a repair service, a professional will appreciate the steps that you have already taken toward solving the problem.
Diagnosing the Symptoms
Below are the five most common furnace problems and how to fix them if you want to DIY. Please remember to record the error code and turn your furnace off before attempting repairs. It is also important to understand that furnace parts can wear out and get dirty like anything else. This video by John Holland from All Utah Home Repair Services has a quick guide to basic furnace maintenance.
Dirty Flame Sensor
If your furnace turns on for about three seconds, then shuts off, you probably have a dirty flame sensor. This is the most common problem and one of the easiest to fix. The sensor will be located near the burners, usually opposite the ignitor. It is usually a metal rod. If this rod cannot sense the flame, it will shut the furnace off. Locating, inspecting, and cleaning the rod only requires a cleaning pad and basic tools.
Beware if your furnace restarts too many times; it will lock itself for three hours. Your furnace is not dead if this happens!
Dirty Furnace Filter
If your furnace turns on and off frequently, it may be time to replace your filter. Your furnace may also turn off because it doesn’t have adequate air circulation. The symptoms are similar to the dirty flame sensor problem, but the solution is different. Replace your furnace filter and repeat monthly or quarterly depending on conditions in the home.
Broken Thermostat
If your furnace heats or cools your house at random or is turning on or off when unexpected, a broken thermostat is probably the culprit. The furnace has stopped regulating both your house and its internal heat. This problem could be as simple as a dead battery, or you may need to replace the thermostat.Often, a bad thermostat won't send a signal to the furnace at all, resulting in the unit not turning on at all.
Bad Motors
If you turn your furnace on and nothing happens, the most likely issue is a faulty inducer motor. If you put your hand on the inducer motor and it feels hot, it is probably the problem. Your furnace may have a diagram for this part; please refer to that when trying to fix this part. The problem could be that something is stuck inside the motor’s blower wheel, or the motor has simply reached the end of its life. If you do need to replace it, the motor might cost $150–$500, but installation services may raise that to $750.
If you smell burnt plastic, the problem is probably a bad blower motor. Your blower motor may also be hot to the touch. Unfortunately, the only way to fix a bad blower motor is to replace it. A standard blower motor may cost $650–$750 to replace.
Faulty Control Board
This is the epitome of “technical difficulties.” The only way to repair a faulty control board is to get a new one, which will cost around $350 to $750 and plenty of additional labor charges. Your furnace technician will replace it with one that matches the brand and model of your furnace.
If your furnace issue doesn’t match any of these, you can continue looking for your issue online or seek professional assistance.
Repair or DIY?
If your problem goes beyond DIY, you may need to ask a professional. In many locations DIY repair work on furnaces is prohibited. LocalProBook will help you find the right repair person. A repair costs from $280–$2,600 depending on the damage. It’s important to weigh whatever quote you get against getting a new furnace entirely.
Can the gas furnace be repaired DIY?
It is not recommended to attempt to repair a gas furnace on your own, as it can be dangerous and potentially lead to serious injury or damage to your home. Gas furnaces involve complex systems and components, and require specialized knowledge and tools to diagnose and repair issues safely and effectively.
Additionally, attempting to repair a gas furnace on your own can void the manufacturer's warranty and may not be covered by your homeowner's insurance in the event of damage or injury.
It's always best to leave gas furnace repairs to licensed HVAC professionals who have the training, experience, and equipment necessary to diagnose and repair issues safely and effectively. They can also ensure that the repair is done in compliance with local building codes and safety regulations.
What If I Need a New Furnace?
If your furnace cannot be repaired, you must buy a new one. Including labor and installation, the average cost ranges from $3,300 to $7,900. The three most common brands are American Standard ($1,700–$6,500), Bryant (~$2,450), and Carrier (~$6,500).
Consider the following when buying a new furnace:
Size. The size of your house affects what size of furnace you will need.
Efficiency. Furnaces have gotten more efficient over time. If saving energy is a concern for you, it may be more expensive to buy a newer model, but it could also save you money over time.
Warranty. Your furnace should come with a warranty. Always read the fine print.
Air quality. If you have allergies or asthma, getting a furnace with good air filtration is critical.
Technology. A good user interface can help maintain your furnace without needing to call anybody immediately.
This video featuring Bryan of Fire & Ice Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. in central Ohio covers most of the points that will help you decide if you should repair your current furnace or buy a new unit. A new furnace is a big investment that should serve you for years.
Alternatively, you may want to consider a heat pump. Although more expensive to install ($4,950–$12,500), heat pumps can save you money throughout the year and have no risk of gas leaks.
What furnace manufacturers are most popular in the USA?
The most popular furnace brands in the USA are Carrier, Lennox, and Trane. These brands are known for their high-quality products, energy efficiency, and reliability. Other popular furnace brands in the USA include Rheem, Goodman, Bryant, American Standard, York, Amana, and Coleman. The popularity of these brands can vary depending on factors such as region, climate, and consumer preferences.
The most popular furnace models.
Carrier's furnace models
Carrier is a well-known and respected brand in the furnace industry, and they offer a wide range of furnace models to choose from. Here are three of the most popular Carrier furnace models:
- Carrier Infinity 98 Gas Furnace: This model is known for its energy efficiency, with an AFUE rating of up to 98.5%. It also features Carrier's Greenspeed Intelligence technology, which allows it to adjust its output based on the home's heating needs. The estimated cost for this model ranges from $3,700 to $5,700, including installation.
- Carrier Performance 96 Gas Furnace: This model is also highly efficient, with an AFUE rating of up to 96.5%. It features a two-stage gas valve and a variable-speed blower motor for improved comfort and energy savings. The estimated cost for this model ranges from $2,600 to $4,600, including installation.
- Carrier Comfort 80 Gas Furnace: This model is a more affordable option, but still offers reliable performance and energy efficiency with an AFUE rating of up to 80%. It features a single-stage gas valve and a fixed-speed blower motor. The estimated cost for this model ranges from $1,600 to $3,650, including installation.
Lennox's furnace models with prices
Lennox is another well-known and respected brand in the furnace industry, and they offer a wide range of furnace models to choose from. Here are three of the most popular Lennox furnace models:
- Lennox SLP98V Gas Furnace: This model is known for its energy efficiency, with an AFUE rating of up to 98.7%. It also features Lennox's Precise Comfort technology, which allows it to adjust its output based on the heating needs of the home. The estimated cost for this model is around $3,600 to $5,600.
- Lennox EL296V Gas Furnace: This model is also highly efficient, with an AFUE rating of up to 96%. It features a two-stage gas valve and a variable-speed blower motor for improved comfort and energy savings. The estimated cost for this model is around $2,600 to $4,600.
- Lennox ML195 Gas Furnace: This model is a more affordable option, but still offers reliable performance and energy efficiency with an AFUE rating of up to 95%. It features a single-stage gas valve and a fixed-speed blower motor. The estimated cost for this model is around $1,600 to $3,300.
3 most popular furnace models from Trane and their costs
Trane is another popular brand in the furnace industry, and they offer a wide range of furnace models to choose from. Here are three of the most popular Trane furnace models and their estimated costs:
- Trane XC95m Gas Furnace: This model is known for its energy efficiency, with an AFUE rating of up to 97.3%. It also features Trane's ComfortLink II technology, which allows it to communicate with other HVAC components for improved performance. The estimated cost for this model is around $3,600 to $4,700.
- Trane XV95 Gas Furnace: This model is also highly efficient, with an AFUE rating of up to 96.7%. It features a two-stage gas valve and a variable-speed blower motor for improved comfort and energy savings. The estimated cost for this model is around $2,700 to $4,400.
- Trane XR95 Gas Furnace: This model is a more affordable option, but still offers reliable performance and energy efficiency with an AFUE rating of up to 95%. It features a single-stage gas valve and a fixed-speed blower motor. The estimated cost for this model is around $1,600 to $3,800.
Furnace vs Heat Pump
Please note that the actual cost of these models can vary depending on factors such as region, installation costs, and additional features or upgrades. It's always best to consult with a licensed HVAC professional for an accurate estimate.
- Fuel source: Gas furnaces use natural gas or propane as a fuel source, while heat pumps use electricity.
- Efficiency: Gas furnaces are typically more efficient than heat pumps in very cold climates, as they can produce more heat per unit of fuel. However, heat pumps are generally more efficient in milder climates, as they can move heat from the outside air into the home.
- Cost: Gas furnaces are generally less expensive to install than heat pumps, but they can be more expensive to operate over time due to the cost of fuel. Heat pumps are more expensive to install, but they can be more cost-effective to operate over time due to their higher efficiency.
- Environmental impact: Gas furnaces produce greenhouse gas emissions, while heat pumps do not. However, the environmental impact of a heat pump depends on the source of the electricity used to power it.
Ultimately, the choice between a gas furnace and a heat pump depends on factors such as climate, fuel availability and cost, and personal preferences. It's best to consult with a licensed HVAC professional to determine which option is best for your specific needs and circumstances.
Cost of Installation of Gas Furnace vs Heat Pump
The cost of installation for a gas furnace versus a heat pump can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the unit, the complexity of the installation, and the region where it is being installed. In general, gas furnaces are less expensive to install than heat pumps, as they require less equipment and labor. The average cost of installing a gas furnace is around $2,600 to $7,800, while the average cost of installing a heat pump is around $4,500 to $8,500.However, it's important to note that the long-term operating costs of a heat pump can be lower than those of a gas furnace, due to the higher efficiency of heat pumps.
Additionally, some regions offer rebates or incentives for installing energy-efficient heating systems, which can help offset the cost of installation. It's always best to consult with a licensed HVAC professional for an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and circumstances.
Conclusion
If you have a furnace issue, the first thing you should do is stay calm. The next thing is recording the brand and light pattern code. Then turn the furnace off so you can inspect it safely and decide if you want to attempt fixing it or call a professional. Even if you ask a professional instead of fixing the furnace yourself, they will appreciate your knowledge and initiative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most expensive part to replace in a furnace?
Several parts in your furnace are costly to replace and install. Depending on the job complexity and labor charges, the blower, and draft inducer motors will set you back between a few hundred dollars and $1,700. The main circuit board sometimes called the motherboard, can cost about the same amount, while a gas valve costs around $1,100.
Why is replacing a furnace so expensive?
The cost to install a furnace averages $3,500 to $8,500. However, some installations can easily exceed $12,000. Replacing a furnace is expensive due to the cost of the equipment itself and installation labor prices. Furnace installation requires the services of a qualified and licensed technician in most cases, and the work itself is labor-intensive and exacting.
How much labor is it to install a furnace?
The labor to install a furnace requires between four hours and a full workday to complete. The work includes removing existing equipment, installing the new furnace, modifying the existing ductwork if necessary, installing the fuel supply equipment, and hooking up or installing new ventilation parts. The labor is more involved if a central air conditioning unit exists or also needs replacement.
How long does it take to replace an existing furnace?
Expect your installation technician to be in your home, replacing your existing furnace for at least four hours and up to eight or ten hours for more complex or large systems. Switching from a standard furnace to a high-efficiency model requires extra time to install a new ventilation system for the unit.