Furnace service costs $70 to $200 for a one-time tune-up. An annual furnace maintenance plan costs $150 to $500 and includes an inspection, tune-up, and minor repairs.

Furnace repair service costs $100 to $480 on average, depending on the problem, furnace size, brand, and fuel type. Oil or gas furnace repair services cost $100 to $480, while electric furnace repair services cost $100 to $380.

A furnace should be serviced at least once a year or in both the spring and fall, depending on the unit’s age, fuel type, and usage. Regular tune-ups to clean the air filters, burners, and pilot-light systems may prevent major breakdowns and sudden furnace failures and will improve the air quality in your home.

Homeowners insurance policies typically only cover furnace repairs if the breakdown was caused by a natural disaster, such as a fire. Standard policies do not cover regular furnace maintenance or repairs for normal wear and tear. Consider adding equipment breakdown coverage to your policy to cover furnace repairs.

A furnace lasts 15 to 30 years on average, depending on the brand, quality, fuel type, usage, and maintenance frequency. Regular maintenance minimizes the need for repairs, reduces energy bills, and extends the system's life.

Look for these signs your furnace needs repairs or replacement:

• Increase in energy bills
• Uneven home heating
• Weak or limited airflow from the vents
• Furnace cycles on and often frequently
• Ignition difficulties or failure to switch on
• Stale or musty odors from the vents
• Unusual noises from the system
• Cracked furnace components
• Dust or soot accumulation
• Water puddles under the furnace
• Debris coming from the vents

Furnace service techs don't expect a tip, but they welcome a $10 to $20 tip for outstanding service. Consider offering the technician a drink and use of your bathroom, send positive feedback to their manager, and post a positive review online.

Use these helpful tips to choose the best local furnace service company:

• Compare at least 3 estimates.
• Look for a company with certifications from North American Technician Excellence (NATE), American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, & Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), HVAC Excellence, and the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA).
• Check out their reviews and previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
• Select a company that is licensed, insured, bonded, and has been in business for 5+ years.
• Be wary of companies that quote repair costs over the phone without inspecting the furnace in person.
• Get a detailed contract and warranty in writing before the work begins.
• Never pay in full before the project starts.

Ask these questions to ensure you hire the best furnace repair service:

• How long have you been repairing furnaces, and which types do you work on?
• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
• Which certifications do you have?
• Can you provide references from previous jobs?
• Can my furnace be repaired or does it need replacing?
• How long will the repairs take?
• Does the estimate include all labor, materials, and cleanup fees?
• What extra costs should I expect?
• Will you inspect my ductwork, wiring, and thermostat connections?
• Do you provide a labor or parts warranty, and what does it include?
• Do you offer a furnace maintenance or service plan?