Average Repair Costs for Four Typical Furnace Problems

Your furnace is an integral part of your home. Without one, you wouldn’t be able to keep warm during cold weather. Yet furnaces can have some problems that are more typical than others.Let’s go over these problems and discuss what they might cost to fix so you know before you contact an HVAC technician. Some of the most common furnace repair issues involve:

• Furnace won’t turn onFurnace doesn’t stay litFurnace won’t blow hot airFurnace won’t turn off

1. The Furnace Can’t StartThere are a few reasons why your furnace won’t turn on, so make sure to go through all of them.

• Is your thermostat set correctly? Make sure it’s on “heat,” “auto” and that your preferred temperature is higher than the room’s current temperature. If you use a programmable thermostat, make sure it has new batteries.Is the circuit breaker tripped? Your furnace can’t operate if it doesn’t have electricity. Reset the switch if it’s facing the outside of the electrical panel.Is the furnace switch off? Your furnace has a power switch located on or near it. Since this switch resembles a light switch, it’s easy to unintentionally turn it off. If it was off, it may take your furnace a few minutes to start.Is the air filter clean? A dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems for your furnace. Get a new one if you can’t see light through it.

Estimated Repair CostThis issue can be complex, so the estimated cost to repair it varies according to what’s wrong.2. The Furnace Ignition System Isn’t WorkingYour furnace uses a certain sequence when it starts heating your home.

• Your thermostat detects the temperature has dropped and tells your furnace to start running.The draft inducer fan activates to pull in fresh air for combustion.The gas valve unlocks for the burners, which are lit electronically.The flame sensor signals to your furnace the burners have been ignited.

If something is wrong during the sequence, your furnace will shut down as a preventive measure.A couple of potential causes for this problem include:

• Dirty or malfunctioning flame sensor. If the sensor doesn’t detect a flame, it will turn off your furnace to keep natural gas from getting into your home. The ignition process corrodes flame sensors over time. While cleaning during annual furnace maintenance can help, yours may eventually need to be taken out and changed.Bad limit switch. This safety feature will shut off your furnace if it detects backdrafting. Backdrafting is dangerous, because carbon monoxide and natural gas can leak into your home. These switches can malfunction due to age, damage or dust buildup.Old thermostat. If your thermostat isn’t working correctly, your furnace won’t be able to operate.Dirty air filter. A dirty air filter can limit airflow and force your furnace to shut off to avoid overheating. Make sure to change yours every 30 to 90 days, or anytime you can’t see light through it.

Estimated Repair CostThese costs are estimates, so it’s important to note yours may fluctuate based on your furnace’s brand and model.

• Flame sensor: $350–$500Limit switch: $150–$300Thermostat: $150–$350Furnace filter: $10-$30

3. The Furnace Is Blowing Cold AirIn many cases, this problem is tied to a wrong thermostat setting or a dusty air filter that’s restricting airflow. Follow the steps above to resolve the issue.4. My Furnace Can’t Shut DownIf it’s very chilly outside or you like your home to be warm, your furnace may be working for a long time.If this isn’t the case, ensure your thermostat is set correctly and working properly. If your fan setting is at “on,” the blower motor will be running even when the furnace isn’t, so it’ll seem like your furnace is on all the time.Alternatively, there might be an issue with the blower motor or your ductwork may be losing air, making your furnace run continuously to make up for the air loss.Estimated Repair CostThese costs are estimates, so it’s important to note yours may vary based on your furnace’s brand and model.

• New blower motor: $250–$800Seal ductwork: varies based on house size

Three Rivers Heating and Cooling Can Get to the Bottom of Your Furnace Issues as Soon as Possible

Furnace problems can be an expensive headache, but not when you call Three Rivers Heating and Cooling. We’ve been delivering the quality, affordable furnace repair Portland homeowners have relied on since {year}. Contact us at 503-213-4433 to receive your free estimate today.