When deciding whether to replace the heat exchanger or buy a new furnace, take these factors into consideration: The age of your current furnace: Most furnaces last anywhere from 10-15 years. Some last even longer. If your current furnace is close to 10 years old, then replacing the furnace would probably be the better option.
Full Answer
How much does it cost to replace a heat exchanger?
If you’ve recently had a technician tell you that your heat exchanger is cracked, your first question is probably, “How much is going to cost me to replace it?”. Unfortunately, heat exchangers are expensive, typically costing anywhere from $1,000–$3,500+ to replace.
Should I get a new heat pump, or a furnace?
Where you live plays a large part in whether or not a heat pump vs. furnace is right for your home. If you live in an area with mild winters, a heat pump is a great option. Southeastern climates are ideal for heat pump use.
How much is it to install a furnace heat exchanger?
To prevent a cracked heat exchanger in the future, it’s important that you:
- Install a correctly-sized furnace
- Keep up on regularly replacing the air filter (every 1-3 months)
- Invest in annual maintenance with a professional
How to change a heat exchanger?
This includes a transfer to a safe place for them to stay with ... the capacity to sense the heat even though they are experiencing the heat. Also see: 6 ways to build climate change into your retirement planning Consequently, during a dangerously hot ...
Is it worth replacing a heat exchanger in a furnace?
Replacing your furnace's heat exchanger would be a good route to take if your furnace is fairly new. However, it is not worth spending your money on replacing your heat exchanger when it is near the end of its life span, which is ten years or more.
How much does it cost to replace a heat exchanger in a furnace?
$2,000 to $3,500If so, here's the thing: replacing a heat exchanger isn't as simple or affordable as it sounds. In fact, replacing a furnace heat exchanger can take up to 8 hours and can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500.
How long should a furnace heat exchanger last?
15 to 25 yearsIn the past, heat exchangers were often built with heavy metals, such as cast iron. These exchangers can last as long as 30 or 40 years, much longer than the steel exchangers most manufacturers build today. Modern stainless or aluminized steel heat exchangers typically have a life span of 15 to 25 years.
How often do heat exchangers need to be replaced?
15-20 yearsFor a fact, a heat exchanger lasts up to 15-20 years. So if your unit survives and still works beyond that, you'll have to shoulder an expensive repair service and replace the heat exchanger (which is costly too) to keep it functional.
Can I run my furnace with a cracked heat exchanger?
Rule #1: If your Heat Exchanger has been deemed cracked by a HVAC professional you should NOT be running it. Unfortunately, some owners will attempt to run their furnace even when a cracked heat exchanger has been detected.
What are the signs of a cracked heat exchanger?
Six Signs Your Furnace Heat Exchanger May be CrackedStrange smells. A malfunctioning heat exchanger will often create an unpleasant and strong odor that smells similar to formaldehyde.Soot Build-up. ... Corrosion & Cracks. ... Change in the flame appearance. ... Audible Sounds. ... Presence of Carbon Monoxide.
Are heat exchangers worth it?
The benefits of installing a heat exchanger in a home include improved moisture removal, decrease in the potential of structural damage, elimination of harmful pollutants, and reduced energy costs. The resulting improved indoor air quality can affect the home occupants and their health in a positive manner.
What causes a heat exchanger to fail?
1. Lack of airflow is the number reason. Result of a poorly sized duct system, oversized furnace, dirty filters, dirty coil or a dirty secondary coil.
How often do heat exchangers crack?
If you've poorly maintained your system, rust can build on the components and develop cracks. The average lifespan of a furnace's heat exchanger is 15 years. If your gas furnace is about that age, the chances are high that the heat exchanger can crack.
Will a home warranty cover a cracked heat exchanger?
If you have a Landmark home warranty and you get the bad news that your furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, your first question will most likely be: "Will my home warranty cover this?" The answer is yes!
What is the life of a heat exchanger?
about 15 yearsThe heat exchanger is responsible for heating the air that circulates through your home in the winter. Heat exchangers usually last about 15 years. If you invest in maintenance, yours might even last 20.
How do you check a furnace heat exchanger?
0:024:34Checking a FURNACE HEAT EXCHANGER - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBasically there you go take the circuit board out you're going to take the screws out of the blower.MoreBasically there you go take the circuit board out you're going to take the screws out of the blower. So that you can access the guts of the furnace. And it's basically two metal cells stamped.
How much does the heat exchanger cost on a gas furnace?
While replacing a furnace heat exchanger can be a significant expense, it's an essential investment in your safety. What is the cost to replace HVAC heat exchanger? It can range between $1,000-$4,000 for parts and labor, with an average cost of $2,000.
What happens if your heat exchanger is cracked?
Protect Your Home & Family Today There are so many things that can go wrong with your heating system, but a cracked heat exchanger is the worst of them all. A crack in this vital piece of equipment will cause it to malfunction and could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or even death.
How do you check a furnace heat exchanger?
0:024:34Checking a FURNACE HEAT EXCHANGER - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBasically there you go take the circuit board out you're going to take the screws out of the blower.MoreBasically there you go take the circuit board out you're going to take the screws out of the blower. So that you can access the guts of the furnace. And it's basically two metal cells stamped.
How much is a cracked heat exchanger?
The average costs for replacing your exchanger is about $1,500. However, it can cost as little as $500 or as much as $3,500. If the heat exchanger is cracked or malfunctioning before you would typically expect it, there may be another issue with your HVAC system.