Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning is a Bryant Factory Authorized Dealer equipped to confirm if your heat exchanger is subject to a recall and to guide you through the process.
If your Bryant heat exchanger is recalled or needs replacing, Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning will outline the steps to follow. You’ll need to confirm the recall, check warranty coverage, contact a dealer, consider costs, and address safety hazards. Click on the links below to get more details.
1) Options for What To Do if Heat Exchanger Fails – Get a professional inspection and check warranty, manufacturer promotions, and/or trade-in allowances.
2) Steps To Take if Your Heat Exchanger Fails – Turn off your furnace, call a certified HVAC technician, check warranty, and consider repair vs replacement.
3) If My Heat Exchanger Breaks, Is It Time To Buy a New Furnace? – Depends on age of furnace, cost of repairs, and your comfort with system’s reliability.
4) How Much Is a Heat Exchanger for a Bryant Furnace? – $1,500 to $3000. Click on the link to learn more.
5) How to Get My Recalled Bryant Heat Exchanger Replaced – Check recalls, contact Bryant’s Customer Service, track documentation, and monitor updates.
6) How to Get the Costs of My Recalled Bryant Heat Exchanger Covered – Contact your Bryant Authorized Dealer, check warranty, ask installer, and keep records.
7) Is There a Recall on Bryant Secondary Heat Exchanger? – There is no formal recall on Bryant secondary heat exchangers but extended warranties exist.
8) Is There a Recall on Bryant Primary Heat Exchanger? – No specific primary heat exchanger recall is in place.
9) How Long Is a Bryant Heat Exchanger Warranty? – Standard warranty provides limited lifetime warranty w/ registration; Some extended warranties exist.
10) How Much Should It Cost to Replace a Heat Exchanger? – $1,500 to $3,500. Click on the link to learn more.
11) Is It Worth Repairing a Heat Exchanger? – Depends on age of furnace, cost of repair vs. replacement, warranty status, efficiency gains, and safety.
12) What Is the Lifespan of a Bryant Furnace? – 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Remember, it is always best to consult a professional for accurate diagnosis and repair options based on your specific furnace model. Click here or on the button below to contact Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning.
Learn what to do if there has been a recall on your Bryant heat exchanger or you think you need to replace it.
Bryant Heat Exchanger - Replacement vs Recall
1) Options for What To Do if Heat Exchanger Fails
Should your Carrier, Payne or Bryant heat exchanger fail, you have a couple of options. Below are some guidelines:
Get a Professional Opinion
Always have a certified HVAC technician inspect the furnace to determine whether the heat exchanger can be repaired, replaced, or if the furnace needs to be replaced entirely. They can also assess other components of the system that could be affected by the heat exchanger failure.
Check for Warranty
Many Carrier, Payne, and Bryant furnaces come with a 20-year warranty on heat exchangers, especially if the unit was installed recently or is still under warranty. Contact the manufacturer or the installer to check if your furnace qualifies for a warranty replacement.
Check for Manufacturer Promotions or Trade-In Allowances
Carrier, Payne, and Bryant occasionally offer trade-in incentives or rebates through their authorized dealers. These promotions are typically seasonal or time-limited (e.g., during the spring or fall). You should check with your local HVAC dealer to see if any current trade-in promotions are available.
To get started, begin with a professional inspection from Ideal.
If you heat exchanger fails, begin by getting a professional inspection and opinion from a certified HVAC technician.
2) Steps To Take if Your Heat Exchanger Fails
Here are the steps to take if your heat exchanger fails:
Turn Off Your Furnace
Immediately shut off your furnace to prevent potential hazards, such as carbon monoxide leaks if the heat exchanger is cracked.
Call a Certified HVAC Technician
Have a certified technician inspect your furnace to confirm the heat exchanger failure and assess any safety risks.
Check Warranty Coverage
If your furnace is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer (e.g., Carrier, Bryant, Payne) or your original installer to see if the heat exchanger is covered. Many manufacturers offer warranties that cover heat exchanger failure, especially if the furnace is relatively new.
Now, if your furnace is a Bryant Legacy gas furnace (manufactured between 1993-2011), you may be eligible for their Enhanced Warranty Program. This program covers the secondary heat exchanger for up to 20 years from the original installation date.
Options under the Enhanced Warranty:
- Replacement of the secondary heat exchanger at no cost (including necessary parts like the coupling box).
- Or a credit of up to $525 toward the purchase of a new Bryant furnace, which includes up to $200 toward the equipment and up to four hours of labor.
To confirm eligibility, refer to the model and serial number on your furnace. If your furnace qualifies, contact a local Bryant dealer for assistance.
Evaluate Repair vs. Replacement
- Repair Option: If your furnace is relatively new, replacing just the heat exchanger might be a good option, especially if it’s under warranty.
- Replacement Option: For older furnaces, especially those nearing 20 years of age, replacing the entire unit might be more cost-effective and energy-efficient in the long run
Get an Estimate
Whether you decide to repair or replace, obtain quotes for both options. Compare the cost of repairing the heat exchanger against the long-term savings of a new furnace.
Look for Trade-In or Rebate Programs
Check if any manufacturer or utility rebates, including potential trade-in allowances for a high-efficiency model, are available when replacing the furnace.
Schedule Proper Ventilation and Airflow Checks
After the repair or replacement, ensure that the technician verifies proper venting and airflow to avoid future issues.
Regular Maintenance
After resolving the issue, set up annual furnace maintenance to ensure your system remains in top condition and minimize the risk of future failures.
This information gives you a full view of your options, including potential warranty coverage from Bryant if your furnace qualifies for their Enhanced Warranty Program. Always consult with a professional to confirm eligibility and make an informed decision about your heating system’s future.
Ask your HVAC technician for a quote on repair vs replacement so you can compare your options.
3) If My Heat Exchanger Breaks, Is It Time To Buy a New Furnace?
If your heat exchanger breaks, it’s a serious issue, and whether or not you need to buy a new furnace depends on several factors, including the following:
- Age of your furnace
- Cost of repair
- Your overall comfort with the system’s reliability moving forward
Here’s what you should consider:
Assess the Age of Your Furnace
Under 10 Years Old: If your furnace is relatively new (less than 10 years old), repairing or replacing the heat exchanger may make sense. Furnaces in this age range tend to have more life left in them, so replacing the heat exchanger could be a cost-effective option.
Over 15 Years Old: If your furnace is over 15 years old and the heat exchanger has failed, it might be time to consider a replacement. Even if the heat exchanger is repairable, older furnaces are less energy-efficient and more likely to need repairs in the near future. Investing in a new, high-efficiency furnace could provide long-term savings and peace of mind.
Warranty Coverage
When your furnace is still under warranty, especially if it’s a Bryant, Carrier, or Payne model, you may have the option of replacing the heat exchanger at little or no cost. Some manufacturers offer warranties that cover the heat exchanger for up to 20 years (e.g., Bryant’s Enhanced Warranty covers heat exchangers for up to 20 years on certain models).
Check warranty details because, if your furnace is still covered under warranty, you could save significantly on repairs. In some cases, the manufacturer will cover the cost of the heat exchanger, and you may only need to pay for labor.
Cost of Repair vs. Replacement
Replacing a heat exchanger can be expensive, with costs potentially ranging from several hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, depending on the model and labor. If your furnace is relatively new and in good condition, otherwise, repairing the heat exchanger might be a good investment.
In some cases, the cost of repairing a failed heat exchanger may approach or exceed the cost of replacing the entire furnace, especially if the furnace is older. A new furnace is likely to be more energy-efficient, and replacing the unit could be a better long-term solution.
Keep in mind that newer models are significantly more energy-efficient. If your furnace is old and inefficient, replacing it with a modern, high-efficiency model could reduce your heating bills and improve overall comfort.
Risk of Additional Failures
An older furnace with a broken heat exchanger might be more prone to other issues down the road. If the furnace has other signs of wear and tear, such as issues with the blower, control board, or motors, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than continuously repairing it.
In a case where you’re already facing significant repairs, it may be worth considering the reliability of your furnace in the years to come. A new furnace typically comes with a longer warranty and can offer peace of mind that you’re not facing unexpected repairs in the near future.
Incentives and Trade-In Allowances
Many manufacturers offer trade-in programs, rebates, or financing options for those replacing an old furnace. For example, Bryant’s Legacy Furnace Enhanced Warranty offers trade-in credit toward the purchase of a new furnace. These programs can help offset the cost of a new unit.
In some areas, local governments or utilities offer rebates for upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace. These incentives can further reduce the cost of replacement.
Safety Considerations
A cracked heat exchanger can lead to carbon monoxide (CO) leaks, which are extremely dangerous. If you suspect a CO leak or if the heat exchanger is severely damaged, it’s crucial to replace the furnace immediately. Even if you’re leaning toward repairing it, CO leaks are a major safety concern, and waiting too long can be hazardous.
When to Repair vs. Replace
- Repair: If your furnace is relatively new, under warranty, or in good condition overall, replacing the heat exchanger may be your best option.
- Replace: If your furnace is older, inefficient, or has other issues, it’s likely more cost-effective to replace the furnace entirely. A new, high-efficiency furnace can save you money on energy bills and offer improved reliability.
Overall, you’ll want to weigh the cost of repair against the potential benefits of a new furnace. And always consult with a professional HVAC technician to determine the best course of action. If your furnace is still under warranty, you may have a significant opportunity to repair it at little to no cost, but for older units, replacing the entire system might be a better investment for the future.
Is it time to replace your furnace?
Make sure to inquire about current rebates that may be available! Contact Ideal to ask about current rebate programs.
4) How Much Is a Heat Exchanger for a Bryant Furnace?
The cost of replacing a heat exchanger in a Bryant furnace in Ontario typically ranges between $1,500 and $3,500, depending on the specific model and size of the furnace. This price range includes the part itself, but labour charges can increase the total cost, especially if the furnace is no longer under warranty.
When purchasing a new heat exchanger separately, prices can vary. For instance, a Carrier/Bryant heat exchanger part can cost around $875 from specialized parts suppliers.
Consult with an HVAC technician for an accurate estimate based on your furnace’s condition and model.
Begin by verifying whether your furnace is affected by a recall.
5) How to Get My Recalled Bryant Heat Exchanger Replaced
To get your recalled Bryant heat exchanger replaced in Ontario, Canada, follow these steps:
Check Recall
- Check if Your Furnace is Affected by the Recall: First, determine if your specific Bryant furnace model is part of a recall. Bryant has issued recalls in the past for heat exchanger issues due to safety concerns. Do this by visiting the Bryant website or contacting a local Bryant dealer. You may need to provide the furnace’s model and serial number.
Contact Bryant
- Contact Bryant Customer Service: Reach out to Bryant’s customer service or their authorized dealers in Ontario. They can confirm if your heat exchanger is subject to recall and guide you through the process. You may also contact the local distributor or installer who originally handled the furnace installation.
- Arrange for a Certified Technician: Once the recall is confirmed, Bryant will either arrange a replacement through an authorized technician or direct you to an approved service provider. Typically, parts are provided for free under a recall, but you may need to cover labour costs if your furnace is out of warranty.
Track Documentation & Monitor Updates
Documentation: Keep all relevant documentation, such as proof of furnace ownership, warranty details, and any communication with Bryant. This will help expedite the process.
Monitor Updates: Occasionally, recalls are updated with new information, so keep an eye on Bryant’s official site or recall notices.
For more details on the process, you can contact local Bryant dealers in Ontario or visit the Bryant website’s recall section.
Contact your authorized dealer Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning to arrange the replacement.
6) How to Get the Costs of My Recalled Bryant Heat Exchanger Covered
To get the costs of your recalled Bryant heat exchanger covered, follow these steps:
-
Contact Bryant or an Authorized Dealer: Once you’ve confirmed the recall, Bryant typically covers the cost of the recalled part, such as the heat exchanger. You can reach out to Bryant’s customer service or an authorized dealer in your area to arrange the replacement. Find a local dealer through Bryant’s dealer locator on their website.
-
Warranty Coverage: If your furnace is still under warranty, Bryant will generally cover both the cost of the part and potential labour. For out-of-warranty units, while the recalled part is covered, labour costs might not be included. To reduce out-of-pocket costs, ask if Bryant will cover labor under the recall or negotiate with the contractor doing the work.
-
Check with Your Installer: If you had your furnace professionally installed, the company that installed it may help coordinate the replacement under the recall, and they might offer better pricing or free labour as part of their service commitment.
-
Keep Records: Ensure you retain all documentation related to the recall, including receipts and correspondence. This may help you if you need to claim reimbursement later or if there are questions about warranty coverage.
Recalls typically cover the replacement part, but labour costs often depend on warranty terms or agreements with service providers.
If you are unsure about what is wrong with your furnace, contact Ideal and a technician can inspect your system for issues.
7) Is There a Recall on Bryant Secondary Heat Exchanger?
There is no formal recall on Bryant secondary heat exchangers, but there have been significant issues reported with certain models of Carrier, Bryant, Payne, and Day & Night high-efficiency furnaces manufactured after 1989. Due to a class-action lawsuit, Carrier (Bryant’s parent company) extended the warranty for these secondary heat exchangers to cover 20 years, including parts and labour. If your furnace’s secondary heat exchanger fails, this warranty allows for replacement at no charge, or you may receive a credit toward purchasing a new system.
How to Proceed
To proceed, you should contact an authorized Bryant or Carrier dealer in Ontario to inspect your system. If your furnace qualifies under the warranty, the cost of replacing the heat exchanger will likely be covered. You can also inquire about compensation if you’ve already replaced the part.
Ideal's friendly specialists will help you determine if the problem is related to your primary or secondary heat exchanger.
8) Is There a Recall on Bryant Primary Heat Exchanger?
While there are known issues with secondary heat exchangers in Bryant (and Carrier) furnaces, especially in models with high-efficiency condensing units, no specific primary heat exchanger recall has been identified for Bryant furnaces. The primary heat exchanger typically carries its own warranty but hasn’t been the subject of the same legal issues or warranty enhancements as the secondary heat exchanger.
If you suspect an issue with your primary heat exchanger, it is best to contact your local Bryant dealer to inspect the unit and provide options for repair or replacement under warranty.
Check your saved receipts and warranty documentation to check for standard or extended warranty coverage.
9) How Long Is a Bryant Heat Exchanger Warranty?
Replacing the heat exchanger in your furnace typically ranges between $1,500 and $3,500.
10) How Much Should It Cost to Replace a Heat Exchanger?
The cost to replace a heat exchanger in a furnace typically ranges between $1,500 and $3,500, depending on several factors, including:
Type of Furnace: High-efficiency furnaces with more complex heat exchangers (like condensing furnaces) can be more expensive to repair than standard models.
Labour Costs: Labor rates vary by region, but you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for labour, depending on the complexity of the replacement and the technician’s rates.
Warranty Coverage: If your heat exchanger is still under warranty, you may only need to cover labour costs. Some warranties (especially those from recalls or extended warranties) may also cover labour.
Location: Pricing can fluctuate based on where you live. In areas with higher living costs, labour and parts might be more expensive.
Be sure to check with local HVAC professionals for an accurate quote based on your specific furnace model and warranty status.
Repairing your heat exchanger depends on the age of your furnace, the costs involved, warranty coverage, efficiency gains and safety.
11) Is It Worth Repairing a Heat Exchanger?
Whether it’s worth repairing a heat exchanger depends on several factors:
Age of the Furnace: If your furnace is over 15-20 years old, it may not be worth repairing the heat exchanger, as other components could start failing soon. In such cases, replacing the entire furnace is often a better investment.
Cost of Repair vs. Replacement: The cost of replacing a heat exchanger typically ranges between $1,500 and $3,500. On the other hand, a new furnace can cost $3,000 to $7,000 depending on the model and efficiency. When the heat exchanger repair is expensive and your furnace is nearing the end of its life, replacing the furnace could provide better long-term value.
Warranty Status: If your furnace’s heat exchanger is under warranty, the cost of the repair might be significantly reduced (you may only need to cover labour). In such cases, a repair might be more cost-effective.
Efficiency Gains with New Furnace: Newer furnaces tend to be much more energy-efficient. If replacing the heat exchanger won’t significantly extend the furnace’s lifespan, investing in a new furnace can result in long-term energy savings.
Safety: A cracked heat exchanger can cause dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. If your technician identifies a cracked heat exchanger, it’s critical to address it immediately. In some cases, repair might be a safer option until a replacement is feasible.
In general, if the furnace is relatively new and still under warranty, repairing the heat exchanger may be worth it. However, for older units, replacement is often the better option.
When you receive professional, high-quality installation from Ideal, this will positively impact the longevity of your furnace.
12) What Is the Lifespan of a Bryant Furnace?
Knowing what to do if your Bryant heat exchanger is recalled or needs replacing can be tricky. Ideal Heating and Air Conditioning is an authorized Bryant dealer who can help you with this process.
And if you are relying on rebate money, don’t wait the usual 2-3 months that most HVAC companies take for a return. Ideal offers rebate money instantly to their customers. That can make a big difference these days.
Click on the button below to contact us or to set up an appointment for your Bryant heat exchanger.