In this blog, Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning will outline what to do if your Carrier heat exchanger is recalled or needs replacing. Follow the links below or keep reading to learn more.
1. How much is a heat exchanger for a Carrier furnace?
2. How to get my recalled Carrier heat exchanger replaced
3. How to get the costs of my recalled Carrier heat exchanger covered
4. Is there a recall on Carrier Secondary heat exchanger?
5. Is there a recall on Carrier Primary heat exchanger?
6. How long is a Carrier heat exchanger warranty?
7. How much should it cost to replace a heat exchanger?
8. Is it worth repairing a heat exchanger?
9. What is the lifespan of a Carrier furnace?
Do you need your Carrier heat exchanger replaced? Contact our experts at Ideal to get the job done.
Carrier Heat Exchanger: Questions & Answers
If your Carrier heat exchanger is recalled or needs replacing, we’ll walk you through the steps involved below. But here is the quick summary of what you’ll need to do.
You’ll first need to confirm the recall status by checking Carrier’s website or contacting customer service with your furnace’s model and serial number. Next, you’ll need to reach out to an authorized Carrier dealer to schedule an inspection and replacement, as they will guide you through the process and ensure proper handling. If your heat exchanger is covered under a recall, Carrier typically covers the cost of the part, but you may still be responsible for labour costs. Lastly, don’t forget to keep documentation of all communications and work performed for warranty and potential reimbursement purposes.
Keep reading and we’ll outline these steps in further details, answering some other questions along the way!
Be confident in your furnace’s performance this Winter – learn about Carrier heat exchanger recalls and replacement. (Image Source: Pavel Danilyuk)
1. How much is a heat exchanger for a Carrier furnace?
The cost of replacing a heat exchanger for a Carrier furnace in Ontario, Canada typically ranges between $2,000 and $3,500.
This variation depends on factors such as the specific furnace model and labor costs, which can make up a significant portion of the total expense.
Keep in mind that if your furnace is older (around 10 years or more), it might be worth considering a complete furnace replacement instead of just fixing the heat exchanger, as a new unit can offer higher efficiency and fewer future repairs.
If your furnace is still under warranty, the part might be covered, but labor costs generally are not, so it’s essential to factor that into your decision.
For older furnaces, the cost of repair might outweigh the benefits when compared to purchasing a new, more efficient model.
It is important to weigh these factors before you make your decision.
Before replacing your heat exchanger, Carrier may require an inspection by a licensed HVAC technician.
2. How to get my recalled Carrier heat exchanger replaced
If your Carrier furnace’s heat exchanger has been recalled and you are in Ontario, Canada, here’s how to get it replaced:
Check the Recall: First, confirm your heat exchanger is recalled. Carrier has had previous recalls on certain heat exchangers. You can verify this by checking the Carrier website or contacting Carrier customer service with your furnace model and serial number.
Contact Carrier or a Local Dealer: Once you’ve confirmed the recall, reach out to Carrier’s customer service or a Carrier-authorized dealer in Ontario. They will help you understand the process for replacing the part under the recall.
Set Up Inspection and Replacement: Carrier may ask for an inspection by a licensed HVAC technician, often from an authorized service provider, to confirm the fault in the heat exchanger. After the inspection, they will guide you through the replacement process.
Documentation: Ensure that you have documentation, such as the furnace’s serial number, proof of purchase (if available), and warranty information. This can help expedite the process.
For more detailed information and assistance, contact Carrier directly or visit the official Carrier recall page.
Understanding your Carrier heat exchanger warranty coverage can help you save money. (Image Source: Yaroslav Y)
3. How to get the costs of my recalled Carrier heat exchanger covered
After you’ve confirmed that your Carrier heat exchanger is eligible for a recall and you’ve contacted Carrier or an authorized dealer, here are some things to remember when getting the costs of your recalled Carrier heat exchanger covered:
- Warranty and Recall Coverage: If your furnace’s heat exchanger is covered under a recall, Carrier typically covers the cost of the replacement part, but labor and installation costs may not be included. Check the specifics of the recall and your warranty to determine what’s covered.
Work With an Authorized Carrier Dealer: To ensure proper service, contact a Carrier-authorized dealer in your area to handle the inspection, diagnosis, and replacement. They can confirm if your unit is under recall and proceed with the replacement.
Negotiate Labor Costs: While Carrier might cover the part, labor and installation fees are often the homeowner’s responsibility. Some dealers may offer discounted rates for labor if it’s a recall, so it’s worth asking.
Documentation: Remember, keep records and receipts related to the recall process for warranty and insurance purposes.
If your exchanger is part of a recall and you’re working with an authorized dealer, you should be able to get your heat exchanger replaced with minimal costs.
Depending on the terms of your warranty, you may be able to get the replacement of your heat exchanger covered.
4. Is there a recall on Carrier Secondary heat exchanger?
Yes, there is a recall and warranty program for certain Carrier furnace models related to secondary heat exchanger failures. Carrier has an enhanced warranty that covers failures of the secondary or “condensing” heat exchangers on specific models, including the following:
- 58 series
- MCA
- MCB
- MSA
- Others under the Carrier, Bryant, and Payne brands
The warranty typically covers the replacement of the heat exchanger and related parts for up to 20 years from the furnace’s installation. If your furnace model is part of the recall, Carrier may cover the replacement costs under this warranty. To determine if your furnace is affected, you’ll need to check its model and serial numbers.
Contact Carrier or an authorized dealer to confirm eligibility and start the inspection and replacement process.
5. Is there a recall on Carrier Primary heat exchanger?
Currently, there is no specific recall for the primary heat exchangers in Carrier furnaces.
However, Carrier has addressed issues with secondary heat exchangers in certain high-efficiency models built between 1993 and 2011, offering an enhanced warranty program. This warranty covers the replacement of faulty secondary heat exchangers at no cost, including parts and labor for eligible models.
If you’re concerned about your primary heat exchanger, it may still be under the furnace’s standard limited warranty, depending on its age and model.
Contact Carrier or an authorized dealer to check the status of your warranty.
Remember to review your warranty coverage. (Image Source: SAULO LEITE)
6. How long is a Carrier heat exchanger warranty?
Carrier offers different heat exchanger warranties depending on the furnace model:
Standard Warranty: Carrier furnaces typically come with a 20-year limited warranty on the heat exchanger. This covers manufacturing defects but may not include labor costs after the first year.
Lifetime Warranty: On some premium models, such as the Infinity and Performance series, Carrier provides a lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger, meaning it will replace the heat exchanger for as long as you own the furnace.
Enhanced Warranty for Recalled Secondary Heat Exchangers: For specific models with defective secondary heat exchangers (especially high-efficiency furnaces), Carrier has issued an extended warranty program that includes replacement parts and labor. This program applies to certain models built between 1993 and 2011 and typically covers the secondary heat exchanger for 20 years
Note that warranty coverage also depends on proper registration and maintenance of the furnace.
To confirm the exact coverage, it’s best to check your furnace’s specific warranty certificate or contact a Carrier dealer. (Image Source: Kaboompics.com)
7. How much should it cost to replace a heat exchanger?
The cost to replace a heat exchanger in Ontario, Canada typically ranges from CAD $2,000 to $3,500, including parts and labor. The specific cost depends on several factors:
Labor Costs: Labor can account for a significant portion of the total expense. The complexity of the installation and the technician’s rates (usually CAD $100 to $200 per hour) affect the overall price.
Furnace Model: High-efficiency models or more complex systems may have higher part costs.
Warranty: If your furnace is still under warranty, Carrier may cover the cost of the heat exchanger, but labor costs are generally not included, so you may only have to pay for installation.
Lastly, prices can vary slightly based on your location in Ontario and the company performing the service.
If your furnace is eligible for Carrier’s enhanced warranty (in the case of a recalled secondary heat exchanger), Carrier may cover both the part and labor costs.
8. Is it worth repairing a heat exchanger?
Whether repairing or replacing a heat exchanger is worth it depends on a few key factors:
- Age of the Furnace: If the furnace is relatively new (under 10 years), repairing or replacing the heat exchanger could be worthwhile, especially if it’s still under warranty. For older furnaces (over 10-15 years), a heat exchanger repair might not be the best option.
- Cost of Repair vs. Replacement: Repairing the heat exchanger typically costs between CAD $2,000 to $3,500. Replacing the entire furnace with a new, energy-efficient model may cost CAD $4,000 to $7,000 (depending on the model and efficiency). If your furnace is old and nearing the end of its life cycle, it may be more economical to replace it rather than just fix one component.
- Energy Efficiency: A new furnace will likely be more energy-efficient, saving you money on utility bills over time. This might make replacement more attractive compared to just fixing the heat exchanger, especially for older models.
- Warranty Coverage: If the furnace is still under warranty, repairing the heat exchanger may be financially viable, as the cost of the part could be covered, leaving you to only pay for labor. Without warranty coverage, however, the repair cost may not be justified.
- Safety Considerations: A cracked or damaged heat exchanger can lead to serious safety issues, such as carbon monoxide leaks. If there’s a significant risk, it’s important to repair or replace the furnace promptly, regardless of the cost.
Repairing a heat exchanger is worth it if the furnace is relatively new, under warranty, and the cost of repair is much less than replacement. Replacing the furnace is often the better choice if your furnace is older, nearing the end of its life, or if you are looking to upgrade to a more efficient system to save on long-term energy costs
9. What is the lifespan of a Carrier furnace?
The lifespan of a Carrier furnace typically ranges from 15 to 25 years, depending on various factors such as:
- Model and Quality: Higher-end models, like those from the Infinity series, may last longer than basic models.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including annual inspections and timely repairs, can significantly extend the lifespan of your furnace.
- Usage: How often the furnace is used, the climate, and the size of your home also play a role in its longevity. Furnaces that work harder in colder climates may experience more wear and tear.
If well-maintained, some Carrier furnaces can exceed the 25-year mark. However, as the furnace ages, efficiency typically decreases, and repair costs may increase, making it worthwhile to consider replacement if it’s nearing the end of its life. For more detailed information on the lifespan and maintenance of Carrier furnaces, you can visit Carrier’s official website or consult local HVAC professionals at Ideal.
Did you know that you might be eligible for a rebate? Ideal Heating offers rebate money instantly to their customers. That’s significant because, with most HVAC companies, you have to wait 2-3 months to get your rebate money. If you want to learn more about rebates or you need help verifying the recall of your Carrier heat exchanger, contact Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning.