Start with a diagnostic. An Aarvaks technician finds the failed part and gives you a written repair quote. The residential diagnostic is $79, and it is waived if we do the repair. With a repair price in hand, you can compare it against a replacement starting at $7,500.
Signs a Repair Makes Sense
- A single failed part, such as an igniter, flame sensor or capacitor
- A furnace that has had regular maintenance and few past repairs
- Parts that are still available for the model
Signs Replacement Makes More Sense
- A cracked heat exchanger, which is a safety problem
- Parts that can no longer be identified or ordered for the model
- Repeated repairs in recent seasons
- A system old enough that a new one would cut gas use noticeably
In Lafayette, a 1960s wall heater had no identification tags, so parts could not be found and replacement was the only option. Read the wall heater project.
The Bay Area Furnace Rule
The Bay Area Air District adopted a zero-NOx standard for new residential furnaces starting in 2029. It applies to equipment sold after that date and to replacement when your current furnace burns out, not to furnaces already working. Details: the 2029 furnace rule.
Common Furnace Repairs
- Igniter or flame sensor: the furnace clicks but will not light, or lights and shuts off. Usually a straightforward repair.
- Blower motor or capacitor: the burners run but little or no air comes out of the vents.
- Pressure switch or inducer motor: the furnace starts its cycle and stops before lighting.
- Thermostat: the furnace never gets a call for heat. Check batteries and settings first.
A Simple Way to Compare
Weigh the repair quote against the age of the furnace and how often it has needed work. A modest repair on a well-maintained furnace usually makes sense. A large repair on an older furnace that has needed several recent repairs usually points to replacement. Your technician can show you the failed part and explain the condition of the rest of the system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a furnace diagnostic?
The Aarvaks residential diagnostic is $79, waived if we do the repair.
Is a cracked heat exchanger repairable?
A cracked heat exchanger can let combustion gases into the airstream, which is a safety issue. In most cases the furnace should be replaced.
Will the 2029 rule force me to replace a working furnace?
No. The Air District says the new requirements apply only upon burnout of your current equipment.
Should I repair a furnace that is over 15 years old?
It depends on the repair and the furnace’s condition. A small repair can still make sense. If the heat exchanger is cracked or repairs are adding up, replacement is usually the better value.