When your furnace stops heating your home properly, the problem often comes down to one key component: the blower motor. This part is responsible for circulating warm air through your ducts and into your living spaces. Without it, your furnace might produce heat—but that heat never reaches your rooms.
Blower motor failure is a common repair, and the good news is you don’t always need to replace the entire furnace. But how much does it cost to replace just the blower motor? On average, homeowners spend $400–$1,500 depending on the type of motor, labor rates, and whether the repair happens during an emergency call.
In this guide, we’ll break down blower motor costs, what influences the price, and when it might make more sense to replace the furnace entirely. If you’re planning ahead for bigger upgrades, our full guide on How Much Does a New Furnace Cost? covers installation and replacement costs in detail.
What Does a Furnace Blower Motor Do?
The blower motor is essentially the heart of your furnace’s airflow system. Its job is to push heated air through the ductwork so every room gets warm. Without it, your furnace is just producing heat that never circulates.
There are three main types of blower motors:
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Single-speed motors: Run at one speed (on or off). Simple and affordable but less efficient.
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Multi-speed motors: Can run at different speeds to improve comfort and save energy.
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Variable-speed (ECM) motors: Adjust continuously to match demand, providing the best efficiency and comfort.
The type of motor in your system plays a big role in the replacement cost.
Average Cost to Replace a Furnace Blower Motor
National Cost Range
According to HomeAdvisor, the average furnace blower motor replacement runs $400–$1,500, with most homeowners paying around $900.
Part Costs by Motor Type
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Single-speed: $100–$500
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Multi-speed: $200–$600
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Variable-speed ECM: $400–$1,200
Variable-speed motors are the most expensive because they use advanced electronics for efficiency. Data from Angi confirms that premium variable-speed motors often cost two to three times more than basic single-speed units.
Labor Costs
Labor typically adds $200–$400 to the total, depending on the complexity of the job and your region. HVAC pros charge anywhere from $75 to $150 per hour, and tougher jobs—like furnaces in attics or crawlspaces—require more time.
Factors That Affect Blower Motor Replacement Costs
Furnace Age and Model
Older furnaces may use blower motors that are harder to find or discontinued, which can increase part costs. On the other hand, new high-efficiency models often require expensive ECM motors that push the repair bill higher.
Warranty Coverage
Always check your warranty. Many manufacturers cover parts for 5–10 years, but labor is rarely included. If your blower motor fails while under warranty, you may only pay labor costs.
Accessibility
If your furnace is in a basement with open space, the repair is straightforward. But if it’s tucked into a tight attic or crawlspace, expect to pay more for the additional labor.
Emergency vs. Scheduled Service
If the blower motor goes out during a cold snap and you need same-day service, emergency fees may add $100–$300 to your total. Whenever possible, schedule non-urgent repairs during normal hours.
Repair vs. Replace: Which Makes Sense?
Not every blower motor issue requires a full replacement.
When Repairing the Motor Works
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Capacitor replacement: Sometimes the issue is a failed capacitor, which costs only $150–$300.
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Relatively new furnace: If your unit is still under warranty, a repair makes sense.
When Full Replacement Is Smarter
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Repeated failures: If your blower motor has failed multiple times, it’s likely a sign of deeper issues.
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Furnace age: If your furnace is 12–15 years old, investing in a new motor may not be the best choice.
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High repair costs: The Lennox HVAC repair vs. replace guide suggests that if a repair costs more than 50% of replacement, it’s usually time to consider a new furnace.
Considering a Full Furnace Upgrade
In some cases, the cost of replacing a blower motor in an older system gets close to the cost of installing a new furnace. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that newer furnaces are far more efficient, which means lower energy bills on top of reliability. If your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan, upgrading may be the better financial move.
How to Save on Blower Motor Replacement Costs
Schedule Early
If you notice weak airflow or strange noises, call for service before the motor fails completely. Scheduled service is cheaper than emergency calls.
Ask About Universal Motors
In some cases, a universal blower motor can replace the manufacturer-specific one at a lower cost. Ask your contractor if this is an option.
Compare Quotes
Always get at least three estimates. Prices vary by contractor, and a detailed line-item breakdown helps you see if labor or parts are marked up too high.
Look for Rebates and Incentives
If you’re replacing the blower motor as part of a furnace upgrade, you may qualify for rebates. The ENERGY STAR rebate finder helps homeowners find local and state-level incentives.
Safety and Efficiency Considerations
Blower motor replacement isn’t a DIY project. It requires working with electrical wiring and, in some cases, integrating with control boards. Hiring a licensed HVAC professional ensures the motor is properly sized, installed, and tested for safe operation.
A properly installed blower motor also ensures your furnace runs at its rated efficiency, saving you money on energy bills and preventing premature wear on the system.
Final Thoughts from Alex Lane
The blower motor may not be the most visible part of your furnace, but it’s one of the most essential. Without it, your furnace simply can’t do its job.
Expect to pay $400–$1,500 for replacement, depending on the type of motor, labor rates, and whether the repair is scheduled or an emergency. For newer furnaces, replacing the motor often makes sense. For older systems, it may be worth comparing the cost of repair against investing in a new furnace.
👉 Next in this series: How Long Should a New Furnace Last (and What Affects Replacement Timing)?
Alex Lane
Your Home Comfort Advocate
