Unusual Cost Estimate for furnace part - feedback appreciated

[Mark3577]

I received the attached cost estimate for a flame sensor for a Trane XV90 furnace. It's very brief and will just take a few seconds to look at. It seems extremely unusual to me and I would greatly appreciate a reality check, especially from any professionals. The company is not being very responsive. Thanks!

[Admin]

I reposted the invoice and removed your address!

Ordering and replacing the flame sensor that, even with clean, was only producing barely readable voltages. Recommend replacing for proper operation.

That is a pretty sketchy diagnosis.  First of all we measure micro amperage when testing a flame sensor, not voltage.  And I have never heard of a clean flame sensor doing that.  Flame sensors don't usually fail, unless the porcelain cracks.

I would need to know the full furnace model but here is a flame sensor for $16.

https://www.amazon.ca/SEN01114-Upgraded-1Pack-Furnace-Sensor/dp/B075TWV56D/ref=asc_df_B075TWV56D/?tag=googleshopc0c-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=292953368354&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16563100396241653328&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1002304&hvtargid=pla-493260058791&psc=1&mcid=85a4c42540113ae38cb42bb702288856

Now I will say this, if I have to drive to get a haircut and pay $40 these days, there is no way my invoice to drive to somebody's house and fix their furnace will be under $400.  That's just the world we live in now.

If the furnace is working I would not do anything.  But anyone can replace a flame sensor using a 1/4" socket.

EDIT:  I saw your other post, and still believe you have a pressure switch issue.  I would find an experienced tech that is willing to spend at least an hour to diagnose the problem.

[Sergroum]

If this problem and your high stage problem are related than ...than flame sensor and high stage have nothing to do with each other.

With faulty flame sensor, your furnace wouldn't even ignite.



As far as prices go.  People play these games.  Make a cheap part feel expensive and labor cost cheaper. Simply because people will see how quickly someone changes it and thinks themselves ripped off for an easy job.


Others are more honest. They give a real price on part and a real price on labor.  And than suffer a customer complaining how someone is overcharging on labor.

And some people just combine costs of the parts and labor together and give you one number.

Bottom line. 400 I think is a little high for a flame sensor replacement, but not by as much as one might think.

Providing the diagnosis is correct,  which ... I dont think it is.  Mmmm. Yeah.

[Mark3577]

Thanks for the input and removing my address. I wanted to put this estimate out there without giving any leading remarks. I realize prices have gone up, but having a line item of $355 for a flame sensor part just seemed extremely out of line. I appreciate your comments about parts, labor, and other comments about estimates. I prefer real price parts (some mark up and shipping/handling is okay) and real price labor. I also realize that estimates can increase during the actual work for legitimate reasons. Unfortunately, the technician used a no-reply email and my dealings with other people in the company are not going well.

I have relayed your pressure switch comments previously and will do so again to another technician today. Thanks.