How Much Do Heating Contractors Cost?

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While the average cost to repair a heating system is around $275 per visit (labor and parts), a full replacement of a furnace will range between $2,100 to $3,800.

Compare Home Improvement Pro PricesAre you looking to hire a heating contractor? If so, here’s what you need to know about heating contractor cost and how to find the top-rated heating companies.

It’s freezing outside, but you’re sitting comfortably in your home. Suddenly, you hear a screeching noise and your furnace stops and doesn’t kick back on. You need to call heating and cooling professionals, but you’re scared of the cost.

As the temperature drops in your home, you dial their number. They’re on their way, but how do you know you the heating contractor cost will be fair?

Don’t worry. We’ll outline some of the most common repairs and they’re average cost.

We’ll also teach you what to look for in a credible heating contractor. You’ll be able to dial their number with confidence.

Average Heating Contractor Costs

Every job is a little different. The cost of fixing your furnace comes in two different types: set and variable. A set cost usually involves simple and common fixes they do all the time. Rather than quoting it out, they have a set cost because they know how long it’s going to take and cost of parts.

heating contractor servicing the furnace

POPULAR FURNACE BRANDS

  • Carrier
  • Lennox
  • Rheem
  • Goodman
  • Amana
  • Maytag

The other is a variable cost and is dependent on how long the repair takes and the cost of the parts. If you have a more complicated fix or they may not be aware of the exact problem, they’ll give you a variable cost quote. This accounts for any problems that come up.

The hourly cost of a heating company depends on several factors. If you live in a metropolitan area where the cost of living is higher, then you’ll pay more per hour. If the company is well known and pays its technicians at a premium, then they’ll pass that cost to you.
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Replacing Your Furnace

Let’s start with the biggest worry people have when their furnace breaks- replacing it. Your average furnace lasts about 15-20 years. It’ll likely have issues in the years previous, but they’re minor and easily fixed.

Eventually, the cost of repairs plus age makes it more sensible to buy a new furnace than continue the repairs.

You’ll first need to decide on the type of furnace you want. A reputable heating contractor works with you. They help you choose a furnace that fits your budget and handles the workload of your home.

Also, high energy furnaces and certain brands may have discounts you can take advantage of when purchasing.

The cost of the furnace depends on power, type, and efficiency. For example, the average home can use a 60,000 BTU furnace, but smaller or larger homes can use different sizes. This can increase or decrease the cost.

The cost will likely be between $2,000-$5,000 to buy and install the furnace. The cost could increase if there problems such as bad ductwork, larger homes, etc.

Cost for Different Repairs

If you only need a repair, then the cost could be as little as $100 or more than $1,000 depending on the problem. The average cost of heating repairs is between $160-$300.

Most companies have a minimum cost for coming out. Even if the fix only takes a few minutes, you’re still going to pay $50-$100. You’re paying for their time and the drive to your home.

If the furnace is new, then the warranty covers the cost of parts. This can save you money, but you’re still paying for their time. If you don’t have a warranty, then you’ll pay for the cost of the part and a small markup by the company.

Small problems such as replacing a thermostat or air duct cleaning, you’ll pay between $200-$400.

If it’s a complex repair because your furnace is older or if there are many repairs needed, then you can pay $1,000 or more. If they cost if above $2,000, then purchasing a new furnace is in order.
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Save Money with Yearly Maintenance

The cost of a heating repair can skyrocket if it’s after hours or in the middle of a blizzard. The company usually charges a premium for those times. It could save you money and headaches if you keep the furnace maintained.

Most furnace companies offer a maintenance package of around $100-$150. They come out in the fall and clean the furnace, change the filter and look for any problems before they become an emergency. You can also do furnace maintenance yourself.

This helps keep your furnace running during the winter. You can have issues fixed at your leisure instead of at the worst possible moment.

Choosing the Right Heating Contractor

Sometimes the cheapest price isn’t the best choice for your heating repair. You want to hire a licensed professional heating company.

There are several “handyman” companies that offer furnace repair for cheap. You can’t guarantee their work and they may not have insurance.

Professional heating companies may be more expensive but are a safer bet. You can visit sites like Yelp and Facebook to check out reviews from other customers. Keep in mind the occasional bad review isn’t a big deal, but many bad reviews should be a red flag.

You can also ask for referrals from past customers. See if they have complaints with the Better Business Bureau.

Furnace repair is costly. You don’t want to hire one company and then hire another to fix what the other company did.

Also, be wary of companies trying to take advantage of your situation. It’s normal for heating companies to charge higher prices after normal business hours or during dangerous weather. Don’t let greedy furnace companies take advantage of you.

If they quote you’re an outlandish price, then call other companies and see what they’re charging. There’s nothing wrong with shopping around.

Choose Your Company Wisely

It’s understandable to worry about heating contractor cost. You’re in an emergency situation and vulnerable.

Follow these suggestions can help ease your fears. You have an idea of general costs and how to best choose your heating contractor.

A reliable and professional contractor works with you and understands your situation. They want to get your furnace up and running as much as you do.

If you want to learn more about furnace repair and heating contractors, then explore our site.
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Popular Areas to Find Heating Contractors:

Chicago, IL
Phoenix, AZ
San Antonio, TX
San Diego, CA
San Jose, CA
Austin, TX
Jacksonville, FL
Austin, TX
Jacksonville, FL
Fort Worth, TX
Columbus,OH
San Francisco, CA
Charlotte, NC
Indianapolis, IN
Seattle, WA
Denver, CO
Boston, MA
El Paso, TX
Detroit, MI
Nashville, TN
Portland, OR
Memphis, TN
Louisville, KY