Furnace heat exchanger replacement cost
Replacing a cracked furnace heat exchanger costs $1,000 to $3,000, about $2,000 on average. The part is $350 to $850, and labor is $650 to $2,150 because the furnace has to be largely taken apart.
Quick answer
$1,000 – $3,000parts and labor
Most heat exchanger replacements cost $1,000 to $3,000. Under warranty (often 20 years to lifetime), you may pay labor only, from about $700; difficult jobs reach $3,500.
Cost breakdown
- Heat exchanger part$350–$85030%
- Labor$650–$2,15070%
Share of a typical project, using the middle of each range.
Part prices by brand
| Brand | Part price |
|---|---|
| Goodman / Amana | $260 – $860 |
| Lennox | $260 – $840 |
| Rheem / Ruud | $290 – $800 |
| Trane | $320 – $825 |
| Heil / Quaker | $320 – $860 |
| Armstrong | $340 – $800 |
| Carrier / Bryant | $350 – $800 |
| York | $470 – $800 |
Condensing furnaces also have a secondary heat exchanger ($300 to $800 part; $1,000 to $2,000 replaced).
Why a cracked heat exchanger is serious
The heat exchanger keeps combustion gases, including carbon monoxide, separate from the air you breathe. A crack can let CO into the home. Many technicians will shut off a furnace with a confirmed crack. Keep working CO alarms on every level and near bedrooms.
Replace the part or the furnace?
Only replace the heat exchanger if the furnace is under about 10 years old, otherwise in good shape, and ideally covered by the heat exchanger warranty. For older furnaces, the $1,000 to $3,000 is usually better put toward a new furnace ($3,500 to $7,500).
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace a heat exchanger in a furnace?
About $1,000 to $3,000, with an average around $2,000.
Is a heat exchanger covered by warranty?
Often yes. Many manufacturers warrant heat exchangers for 20 years or for life if the furnace was registered, though labor is usually extra.
Can I run my furnace with a cracked heat exchanger?
No. It can leak carbon monoxide into your home. Turn it off and have it inspected.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.