When homeowners ask us how much it costs to replace a heat exchanger in Minneapolis, this is what we tell them:
The cost to replace a heat exchanger in Minneapolis ranges from $1,000 to $2,000.
And usually, homeowners respond with, “Yikes! That’s a lot of dough!”
It’s true that the heat exchanger is one of the most expensive parts on a furnace to repair. And since a heat exchanger is central to your furnace (it’s the part that actually transfers heat to your home’s air), if it’s broken, your furnace won’t work.
What you’ll end up paying for a heat exchanger replacement depends on these 3 factors:
A little later in this article we’ll go into more detail about each of those factors. But first, let’s talk about how you can tell your heat exchanger needs replacing in the first place…
You’ll need to replace the heat exchanger if it’s cracked. According to the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute’s (AHRI) guidelines for furnace heat exchanger inspections, “if there are any abnormal splits, cracks, or holes, the exchanger must be replaced.” (emphasis added)
Why’s that?
Well, a cracked heat exchanger is dangerous because it can leak deadly carbon monoxide into your home’s air.
But here’s the problem: Some HVAC service people lie. They say you have a cracked heat exchanger—even when you don’t— to scare you into replacing your heat exchanger or furnace when you don’t need to.
So learn the signs that you really do need a new heat exchanger:
Primary sign:
Secondary signs:
When an HVAC service person visits your home, have them show you the primary sign, as that’s the one that will definitely prove your heat exchanger is broken and should be replaced.
Now, let’s go into the different factors that determine the cost to replace a heat exchanger...
These factors affect how much you’ll actually pay for a new heat exchanger installation:
Because of the high cost to install a new heat exchanger, many homeowners wonder, “Should I replace my heat exchanger or just get a new furnace?”
Here’s what we recommend: The average lifespan of a furnace is 12–15 years, so if your furnace is close to that age range, it may be a good idea to just buy a new furnace. That’s because older furnaces will break down and require more part replacements and repairs. Instead of spending money on repairs and replacements, you can put that money towards a new furnace.
On the other hand, if your furnace is still relatively young and in good working condition, and you still have a valid warranty, replacing the heat exchanger is the most cost effective option.
Contact MSP to schedule a furnace repair appointment today. Or, just call us with any questions you may have about heat exchangers or any other part of your furnace. We’re happy to help!