Average Furnace Repair Cost for Homes In South Jersey
One of the worst feelings is realizing your furnace isn’t working anymore. Maybe you come home to a freezing cold house, or wake up in the middle of the night looking for more blankets. Like any other home appliance, furnaces are prone to breakdowns, leading to the need for repairs.
The average furnace repair cost is going to be anywhere from a few hundred dollars, to $1,500 – $2,000. Understanding what impacts the average furnace repair cost is important for Ocean City, NJ homeowners.
We’ve been working with different types and styles of furnaces for years, and know the ins and outs. Between repairing, replacing, and installing furnaces, there are different costs associated with each, depending on what type of furnace it is.
This article aims to provide an insight into these costs, common furnace problems, and ways to avoid future repairs. If you are having trouble with your furnace in Ocean City, NJ, or any of the surrounding South Jersey areas, give us a call at (609) 390-3907, or contact us online to get in touch with a furnace expert!
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Average HVAC Labor Costs Near Ocean City, NJ
The average HVAC labor costs in the South Jersey area, particularly near Ocean City, NJ, vary depending on several factors. These include the complexity of the job, the experience of the technician, and the time of the year. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $75 to $150 per hour for standard furnace repairs. However, emergency repairs during peak winter months may incur higher charges due to increased demand.
The cost of labor, plus the cost of the parts and components will vary. These are the variables that can slide the cost of your furnace repair from the hundreds to over a thousand dollars.
Read More: What Does This Furnace Noise Mean?
Common Furnace Problems And What They Cost to Repair
Several common issues can lead to the need for furnace repairs. Here are some typical problems and their associated repair costs:
Faulty Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to heating issues. Repair or replacement can cost between $100 to $250.
Ignition or Pilot Control Problems
Issues with ignition or pilot lights can prevent the furnace from heating properly. Repairs typically range from $150 to $450.
Broken Pressure Switch
If the pressure switch needs to be replaced, it’s quick and fairly inexpensive. From $150 – $350
Mechanical Wear and Tear
Normal wear and tear can affect the furnace’s operation, leading to overheating or airflow problems. Repair costs for such issues can range from $100 to $600.
Clogged Filters
Neglected furnace filters can lead to a range of issues. Cleaning or replacing a filter can cost from $20 to $80.
Broken Heat Exchanger
This is a dangerous problem that needs to be resolved right away. This can cost between $1,500 – $2,000.
Broken Blower Motor
The blower motor pushes air through your system into your home. If this is broken, the system won’t disperse air properly. This is a major component, and can cost between $1,500 – $2,000 to repair.
Faulty Control Board
If the control board isn’t working, it’s also on the expensive side of repairs. This will cost between $1,500 and $2,000.
Should You Repair Or Replace Your Furnace?
As you can see, there are a lot of components in a furnace, and a lot that can cause problems. When you are considering repairing or replacing your furnace, there are two major factors:
- Age of Furnace
- Cost of Repair
Age of Furnace
If your furnace is getting older, between 10-15 years, you should be ready to replace it when it runs into a problem. If there are small issues, it may be a good idea to repair it, keep it going for as long as it lasts. But if there are many problems, or major repairs needed, you should think about a replacement.
Cost of Repair
If it costs more than $1,500 to repair your furnace, consider a replacement. If the system is newer, it’s probably under warranty, and shouldn’t cost you too much money to fix it. If the system is older than 8 years and you run into a $1,500+ repair, you should think about a new furnace.
Most people think that repairing a furnace is always the way to save money. You don’t have to shell out for a new heating system, and you can continue to use the old one until it finally needs to be replaced. What people aren’t considering is how hard it’s working.
If it’s an older model, it’s likely not as energy efficient as newer ones. If it’s also enduring breakdowns and repairs, it’s almost certainly not running as well as the day it was installed. Instead of saving money by not paying for a new HVAC system, you may be costing yourself hundreds, even thousands of dollars in energy bills running a dying furnace into the ground.
Do You Know When You Should Replace Your Furnace?
Two Great Ways to Avoid Heater Repairs
If you don’t want to worry about heater repair costs, there are some steps you can take to prevent breakdowns and repairs being needed for your furnace.
Tune-Ups
Regular tune-ups by a professional can significantly reduce the likelihood of unexpected furnace breakdowns. This regular HVAC service ensures that all components of your furnace are working efficiently and can identify potential issues before they become major problems.
This will also keep your system running energy efficiently, which will help save you in energy bills, and prolong the life of your furnace. We recommend furnace service once a year. This will also help you keep your furnace warranty valid.
Change the Filter
One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to maintain your furnace is by regularly changing its air filter. This not only improves the air quality in your home but also enhances the efficiency of your furnace, reducing the risk of clogging up the system and needing a repair. The cost of a new filter ranges from $10 to $50, depending on the type and size.
We will replace your furnace air filter when we perform a regular service, but it is something you should be doing yourself every few months to keep the air clean and healthy!
Do you need some help with your furnace? We are the experts in South Jersey, Ocean City, and all the surrounding areas. Do you need to fix your furnace in Northfield, NJ? We can help you out! Give us a call at (609) 390-3907, or click here to contact us online!
Furnace Repair Cost FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions we hear when it comes to furnace repair cost.
What should I check if my furnace goes out?
If your furnace goes out, first check the thermostat settings, ensure that the circuit breaker is on, and inspect the furnace filter for clogs. If these basic checks don’t resolve the issue, it may be time to call a professional.
What are common furnace repair problems?
Common furnace repair problems include faulty thermostats, issues with the ignition, blower motor, heat exchanger, pilot light, mechanical wear and tear, or clogged filters.
What is the most expensive part of a gas furnace to replace?
The heat exchanger is often the most expensive part of a gas furnace to replace, with costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,500. It’s a crucial component, and its failure usually warrants a complete furnace replacement.
Conclusion
Understanding the average furnace repair cost helps you prepare for making a decision about repair vs replacement. Regular maintenance, such as tune-ups and changing filters, can significantly reduce the chances you will need costly repairs.
However, when repairs are necessary, knowing the average costs and common problems can assist in making informed decisions about your home heating system. Remember, maintaining your furnace is not only about cost but also about ensuring a warm, safe, and comfortable home during the colder months.
If you need some help with your heating system, give Broadley’s a call at (609) 390-3907. We can help you assess the problem, and make a decision about the right solution for your home.