Furnace Repair Calgary: Complete Guide to Fixing Common Heating Problems

When your furnace stops working during a Calgary winter, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it’s a safety and comfort crisis. Temperatures can plummet to -30°C or lower, making a functioning heating system essential for your family’s wellbeing and your home’s integrity.

This comprehensive guide covers everything Calgary homeowners need to know about furnace repair: common problems and solutions, repair costs, when to repair versus replace, troubleshooting steps, and how to find reliable professionals.

1. Why Furnace Repair Matters in Calgary’s Extreme Climate

Calgary’s winters are unforgiving. With average temperatures dropping to -10°C to -20°C and occasional deep freezes reaching -30°C or colder, your furnace works overtime from November through March.

The Cost of Ignoring Furnace Problems

A broken furnace creates multiple problems:

• Frozen pipes – Water in unheated areas freezes, causing thousands in damage

• Structural damage – Prolonged freezing can damage foundation and framing

• Health risks – Inadequate heating leads to hypothermia and cold-related illness

• Mold growth – Condensation in unheated homes promotes dangerous mold

• Property damage – Burst pipes, burst plumbing, frozen toilet tanks

• Emergency rates – Emergency furnace repair costs 50%+ more than scheduled service

Cost comparison:

• Early repair: $239–$500

• Emergency repair: $600–$1,200+

• Property damage from burst pipes: $5,000–$25,000+

• Furnace replacement: $4,500–$8,500

Acting fast on furnace problems prevents catastrophic damage and saves thousands.

2. 10 Warning Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair

Catching problems early is the difference between a simple fix and an emergency. Watch for these warning signs.

1. No Heat or Weak Heat Output

What it means:

• Furnace runs but doesn’t produce heat, or heat is insufficient to warm your home

• One of the most common furnace problems, especially as systems age

Possible causes:

• Dirty air filter restricting airflow

• Broken thermostat

• Pilot light out (on older furnaces)

• Clogged burner

• Ignition system failure

• Low gas pressure

Immediate steps:

1. Check thermostat is set to “heat” mode and temperature is higher than current room temperature

2. Replace air filter if visibly dirty or hasn’t been changed in 3 months

3. Check pilot light (should be blue flame, not yellow)

4. Verify power switch near furnace is ON

5. Check circuit breaker—hasn’t tripped

Cost to repair: $239–$800 depending on cause

2. Unusual Noises (Banging, Rattling, Squealing, Grinding)

What it means:

• Furnaces should operate quietly; any unusual sounds indicate mechanical problems

• Ignoring noise issues often leads to complete system failure

Possible causes:

• Loose or worn components

• Blower motor issues

• Delayed ignition (loud bang when furnace starts)

• Bearings need lubrication

• Ductwork vibration

Why it’s urgent:

• Delayed ignition is a serious safety hazard

• Loose parts can damage other components

• Early repair prevents complete breakdown

Cost to repair: $239–$1,499 depending on component

3. Frequent Cycling (Turning On/Off Too Often)

What it means:

• “Short cycling”—furnace runs in short bursts instead of steady operation

• System works harder, reducing efficiency and lifespan

• Indicates furnace is struggling

Possible causes:

• Dirty air filter reducing airflow

• Thermostat malfunction or poor placement

• Furnace overheating and shutting down

• Ductwork problems

Immediate steps:

1. Replace air filter

2. Move thermostat away from heat sources (vents, sunlight, lamps)

3. Check all vents and registers are open and unobstructed

Cost to repair: $239–$800

4. Yellow or Flickering Pilot Light

What it means:

• SAFETY HAZARD – Indicates dangerous carbon monoxide production or incomplete combustion

• Requires immediate professional attention

What to do immediately:

1. Turn furnace off

2. Leave house if you smell gas

3. Call emergency services if you suspect gas leak

4. Do NOT attempt repair yourself

Why it’s critical:

• Yellow pilot light indicates combustion problems

• Can produce dangerous carbon monoxide gas

• May indicate cracked heat exchanger

Cost to repair: $239–$1,200+

5. Increased Energy Bills Without Clear Reason

What it means:

• Heating bills spike suddenly without change in usage or weather

• Indicates furnace is working inefficiently

• Common on older furnaces

Possible causes:

• Dirty air filter forcing system to work harder

• Inefficient burners

• Thermostat problems causing erratic operation

• Ductwork leaks

Cost to repair: $239–$999

6. Uneven Heating or Cold Spots

What it means:

• Some rooms feel much warmer or colder than others

• Indicates airflow problems or distribution issues

• Common problem in Calgary’s larger homes

Possible causes:

• Dirty air filter

• Ductwork blockage or leaks

• Closed vents or registers

• Blower motor problem

• Thermostat placement issues

Immediate steps:

1. Open all vents and registers

2. Replace air filter

3. Move furniture or rugs blocking vents

Cost to repair: $239–$1,000+

7. Poor Air Quality or Excessive Dust

What it means:

• More dust buildup than usual

• Increased allergy symptoms during heating season

• Indicates dirty filter or system contamination

Possible causes:

• Dirty air filter not trapping particles

• Ductwork contamination

• Leaking ductwork pulling in unconditioned air

Immediate steps:

1. Replace air filter

2. Consider duct cleaning

Cost to repair: $109–$500

8. Furnace Won’t Turn On at All

What it means:

• Furnace doesn’t respond when thermostat calls for heat

• Potential emergency, especially in cold weather

Possible causes:

• Power issue (breaker tripped, power switch off)

• Dead thermostat batteries

• Blown fuse

• Ignition system failure

• Safety switches activated

Immediate steps:

1. Check thermostat batteries—replace if dead

2. Check power switch near furnace—turn ON

3. Check circuit breaker panel—reset if tripped

4. Call professional if still not working

Cost to repair: $109–$1,499

9. Gas Smell Around Furnace

What it means:

• SAFETY HAZARD – Possible gas leak

• Requires immediate action

What to do immediately:

1. Do NOT use any electrical switches

2. Do NOT light any flames

3. Exit your home immediately

4. Call Calgary emergency services (911)

5. Call your gas provider

Why it’s critical:

• Gas leaks are dangerous and potentially explosive

• Can cause carbon monoxide poisoning

10. Furnace Age and Frequent Repairs

What it means:

• If furnace is 15+ years old and requiring repairs, replacement may be more cost-effective

• Older systems deteriorate and break down more frequently

Key facts:

• Most furnaces last 15–20 years

• Repairs become more frequent after year 12

• Older furnaces operate at 60–70% efficiency

• Modern furnaces achieve 90–95%+ efficiency

Cost consideration:

• If repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, replacement is often smarter

3. Common Furnace Repairs & Costs in Calgary

Understanding typical repair costs helps you budget and avoid surprises.

Repair Cost Breakdown

Basic Service Call:

• Diagnostic + first hour labor: $109–$150

• Applies if problem is simple and no parts needed

Level 1 Repairs ($239–$400):

• Blower motor capacitor repair: $239

• Burner assembly cleaning: $239

• Thermostat replacement (basic): $239

• Thermocouple replacement: $239

• Flame sensor replacement: $239

• Filter assembly cleaning: $109–$239

• Wiring repair: $239

Level 2 Repairs ($419):

• Igniter replacement: $419

• Limit switch replacement: $419

• Pressure switch replacement: $419

Level 3 Repairs ($649):

• Fan limit control replacement: $649

Level 4+ Repairs ($999–$2,500+):

• Blower motor replacement: $999

• Control board replacement: $999–$1,499

• Gas valve replacement: $999

• Inducer motor replacement: $999–$1,499

• Heat exchanger repair: $1,100–$2,500+

Emergency surcharge:

• After-hours, weekends, holidays: +$100–$300

Average Calgary Repair Costs

According to local data:

• Average furnace repair: $250–$800

• Emergency repair: $600–$1,200+

• Multiple repairs: $1,500–$3,000+

4. DIY Troubleshooting: What You Can Check Yourself

Before calling a professional, try these simple checks that often solve problems.

Thermostat Issues

Check these items:

1. Thermostat is set to “HEAT” mode (not cool or auto)

2. Temperature setting is higher than current room temperature

3. If battery-operated, replace batteries with fresh ones

4. Thermostat isn’t in a warm location (near vent, sunny window, lamp)—move if necessary

5. Thermostat display is clear and responding to button presses

DIY fix: Most thermostat issues are simple to resolve; saves $200–$400 service call

Air Filter Check

This is the #1 furnace problem:

• A clogged filter is like breathing with a hand over your mouth

• Restricts airflow and causes multiple problems

How to check:

1. Locate filter (usually large square in return air duct)

2. Remove filter and hold up to light

3. If light barely shows through, it’s clogged

4. If dirty or clogged, replace immediately

Cost: Filter replacement $20–$60
DIY saves: $200–$300 service call

Replacement schedule:

• Every 1–2 months during heating season

• Every 3 months during other seasons

Power Supply Check

Verify furnace has power:

1. Check power switch near furnace is ON

2. Go to electrical panel (breaker box)

3. Look for furnace breaker (usually labeled)

4. If breaker is OFF or in middle position, flip to ON

5. If breaker immediately trips again, call professional (electrical problem)

DIY saves: $200–$300 service call

Pilot Light Check (Older Furnaces)

If furnace has pilot light:

1. Look for small glass window on furnace

2. Pilot light should show blue flame (not yellow or orange)

3. If no flame visible:

   • Try relighting (consult furnace manual for instructions)

   • Hold button 10–30 seconds

   • If light ignites, check stays lit for 30+ seconds

4. If won’t stay lit, call professional

DIY saves: $200–$400 service call

Vent & Register Check

Ensure heat can flow:

1. Walk through entire home

2. Check all heating vents and registers (usually in floors, walls, or baseboards)

3. Ensure nothing is blocking vents (furniture, curtains, boxes)

4. Verify registers are open (not closed/blocked)

5. Move furniture blocking vents

6. Open all registers

Fixes cold spots: Often improves heating by 5–10°F

Circuit Breaker Reset

If furnace won’t turn on:

1. Locate electrical panel

2. Find furnace breaker (usually clearly labeled)

3. If breaker switch is down or in middle, flip to ON position

4. Wait 30 seconds

5. If it stays on, problem may be resolved

6. If it immediately trips again, call professional (don’t keep resetting—indicates electrical problem)

DIY saves: $200–$300 service call

5. When to Repair vs. Replace Your Furnace

The repair-or-replace decision is critical. Make it based on facts, not emotion.

Repair If:

• Furnace is less than 12 years old

• Repair cost is less than 30% of replacement cost

• Problem is isolated (one component)

• Repair comes with warranty

• Furnace has good maintenance history

• No major structural issues (cracked heat exchanger, etc.)

Example: 10-year-old furnace needs blower motor ($999 repair). Replacement would cost $5,500. Repair is wise choice.

Replace If:

• Furnace is 15+ years old

• Repair cost exceeds 50% of replacement cost

• Multiple system failures happening (age-related breakdown)

• Heat exchanger is cracked (safety hazard)

• Furnace is no longer efficient despite repairs

• You’ve had 2+ repairs in past 2 years

Example: 18-year-old furnace needs heat exchanger ($1,500 repair). Furnace uses expensive energy. Replacement saves money over time.

The “50% Rule”

If the repair cost (parts + labor) is more than 50% of furnace replacement cost, replacement is usually better:

Calculation:

• Repair cost: $2,500

• Replacement cost: $5,500

• Percentage: $2,500 ÷ $5,500 = 45%

• Result: Below 50% threshold—repair is appropriate

6. Energy Efficiency & Furnace Repair

Repairing your furnace properly also improves efficiency.

How Repair Improves Efficiency

Clean burners & maintenance: Dirty burners reduce heat output by 5–15%
New air filters: Clogged filters reduce efficiency by 10–20%
Sealed connections: Leaking ducts can lose 15–30% of heat
Thermostat calibration: Proper settings optimize heating cycles

Efficiency Gains

A well-maintained, properly repaired furnace:

• Runs more efficiently (uses less gas)

• Provides more even heating

• Reduces monthly energy bills by 10–20%

• Lasts longer (fewer breakdowns)

• Operates more safely

Efficiency Ratings

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency):

• Older furnaces: 60–70% efficiency

• Standard modern furnaces: 80–90% efficiency

• High-efficiency furnaces: 90–98.5% efficiency

Energy savings example:
Upgrading from 70% to 90% efficiency saves approximately:

• $400–$600/year in heating costs

• 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually

• Over 20 years: $8,000–$12,000 in fuel savings

7. Choosing a Furnace Repair Company in Calgary

Finding the right contractor ensures quality work and fair pricing.

Questions to Ask

1. Are you licensed and insured?

• Ask for proof of Alberta HVAC license

• Verify workers’ compensation coverage

• Ensures liability protection if damage occurs

2. Do you provide upfront pricing?

• Get written estimate before work starts

• Should show parts + labor breakdown

• No surprise charges after completion

3. What warranty do you provide?

• Workmanship warranty (typically 1–5 years)

• Parts warranty (typically 1–3 years)

• Get warranty in writing

4. Are you available 24/7?

• Can you handle emergencies?

• What’s response time during extreme cold?

• Nighttime/weekend rates?

5. Do you service all furnace makes/models?

• Many companies specialize in certain brands

• Ensure they work on your specific furnace

6. Can you provide references?

• Ask for recent customer references

• Check Google, BBB, HomeStars reviews

• Look for pattern of positive feedback

8. FAQs: Furnace Repair in Calgary

Q1. How much does furnace repair cost in Calgary?

Answer: Average costs:

• Simple repair: $239–$500

• Standard repair: $500–$1,000

• Major repair: $1,000–$2,500+

• Emergency repair: Add $100–$300 surcharge

Factors affecting price:

• Repair complexity

• Whether parts are in stock

• Time of day (emergency vs. business hours)

• Furnace age and condition

Q2. Can I repair my furnace myself?

Answer: DIY checks yes; actual repairs no.

Safe to DIY:

• Replace air filter

• Check thermostat settings

• Reset circuit breaker

• Check for obvious blockages

Call professional for:

• Any component replacement

• Gas line work

• Electrical work beyond breaker reset

• Anything involving heat exchanger

Why: Improper furnace work can:

• Create safety hazards (gas leaks, carbon monoxide)

• Void warranty

• Cause expensive damage

Q3. How often should I maintain my furnace?

Answer: Regular maintenance prevents repairs:

Minimum schedule:

• Replace air filter: Every 1–3 months (during heating season, monthly)

• Professional tune-up: Annually (fall, before heating season)

• Inspection: Annually (look for obvious damage)

Annual tune-up includes:

• 21-point inspection

• Burner cleaning

• Filter replacement

• Safety checks (carbon monoxide, gas leaks)

• Efficiency optimization

Cost: $149–$300/year
Benefit: Prevents $500–$2,500 emergency repairs

Q4. What should I do if my furnace stops working in winter?

Answer: Follow these steps:

1. Check thermostat:

   • Is it set to HEAT?

   • Is temperature setting high enough?

   • Replace batteries if needed

2. Check air filter:

   • Replace if dirty

3. Check power:

   • Is furnace power switch ON?

   • Is circuit breaker ON?

4. Call professional if still not working

If temp will drop below freezing:

• Contact emergency furnace repair immediately (don’t wait)

• Use portable heater temporarily if safe to do so

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach pipes

• Drip faucets to prevent freezing

Q5. Why is my furnace short cycling (turning on/off frequently)?

Answer: Short cycling indicates:

Common causes:

• Dirty air filter (most common)

• Thermostat in wrong location

• Furnace overheating

• Electrical issues

First step: Replace air filter

If continues: Call professional—likely thermostat or electrical issue

9. Emergency Furnace Repair: Know Before You Call

Furnace emergencies often happen on the coldest nights. Be prepared.

When It’s an Emergency

• No heat during freezing temperatures

• Gas smell

• Yellow pilot light

• Carbon monoxide alarm triggered

• Unusual sounds indicating safety issue

Emergency Service Expectations

Response time: 1–4 hours (varies by company and weather)
Availability: 24/7, including weekends and holidays
Cost premium: Typically $100–$300 above normal rates
Coverage area: Usually limited to company service area

How to Prepare for Emergency

1. Save emergency contacts: Write down preferred furnace repair company numbers

2. Know furnace location: Can easily direct technician to furnace room

3. Have home access: Ensure you can let technician in quickly

4. Know furnace model: Have serial number/brand accessible

5. Clear furnace access: Ensure nothing blocks furnace room door

6. Have payment ready: Emergency service may require payment on-site

10. Why Purcell Heating Specializes in Calgary Furnace Repair

Purcell Heating brings over 20 years of experience to Calgary furnace repair, serving homeowners and businesses throughout the region.

Purcell’s furnace repair advantages:

• Local Calgary expertise – Understands city’s climate challenges

• 24/7 emergency service – Available when you need help most

• Licensed technicians – Certified for all furnace types

• Upfront pricing – No surprise charges

• Fast response – Same-day service available

• All makes/models – Service Furnace, Carrier, Lennox, Trane, and more

• Warranty on work – Stand behind every repair

Ready to Fix Your Furnace?

Don’t let a broken furnace leave your Calgary home without heat. Early repair prevents emergency situations and costly damage.

Contact Purcell Heating today:

Call for emergency or scheduled repair
Visit purcellheating.ca to book service
Schedule your annual furnace tune-up now

Purcell Heating: Keeping Calgary warm, one furnace at a time.