How to Know When My Furnace Needs to be Replaced
Nov 08, 2022 ● By Foley’s Heating & Air Conditioning
By Foley’s Heating & Air Conditioning
The worst time to find out you need a new furnace is when it dies in the middle of a cold winter’s night. So here are some things to keep your eye on.
The furnace needs to be repaired frequently, and repairs become more expensive.
The furnace is making unusual noises, such as buzzing or rattling.
The furnace is putting out dust, soot, or rust, especially around the register.
The furnace starts turning on and off more frequently.
The heat exchanger is cracked.
You’re not using it any more frequently, but your heating bills are skyrocketing.
Your house is heated unevenly, with some rooms warmer than others.
You see rust, cracks, or corrosion around the furnace.
You notice the humidity in your home rising.
Certainly some of these are a sign of needed repair, but if you are experiencing multiple issues it may be time. The easiest solution is to consult an HVAC professional…and second opinions are always prudent.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Furnace?
When you consider furnace replacement costs, make sure you factor in the entire process: the new furnace itself, the installation costs, the removal and disposal of the old furnace, any building permits or fees, and any necessary changes to your existing HVAC system. Clearly, a new furnace is a substantial investment.
On average, the entire cost for replacing a furnace including materials, equipment and labor is $5,500. According to HomeAdvisor, the price range is typically between $2,572 and $6,221, depending on the type and size of the furnace.
Will a Home Warranty Cover Furnace Replacement?
Nearly all home warranty companies offer coverage for heating systems, which include furnaces. Although most of these warranties don’t cover pre-existing conditions, whether you knew about them before signing the contract or not, they do cover systems and appliances without regard to their age.
If your furnace is getting toward the end of its lifespan but still functioning normally, you may want to consider investing in a home warranty. With one of these in place, you can call your provider any time your furnace has an issue, and the company will send one of its contractors to make repairs. If the furnace can’t be repaired, the provider will often cover the cost of a replacement.