Here's How Much It Costs To Repair A Radiator

Few things are more frustrating than a broken radiator on a cold day. If you've found yourself shivering inside your home because your radiator is on the fritz, you're probably wondering how much it's going to cost to fix. While there are many factors involved in determining the final price, the national average is $340, but costs can range between $100 and $500 per unit.

Common radiator problems include leaks, clogged vents, loud noises coming from the appliance, an absence of heat, and broken valves. A knowledgeable DIYer might find some issues an easy fix, but a broken radiator is one of those home improvement projects that are typically better left to a professional in case the problem is more serious. For example, you may find that you need a new boiler or that the problem lies with your plumbing system.

No matter the issue, the bulk of your repair cost will likely go to time and labor. Many radiator repair professionals charge a base rate just to show up, plus an hourly fee. These rates vary by location and the type of specialist performing the repairs. Average hourly rates for labor run between $45 and $150 per hour for a plumber and between $75 and $150 per hour for an HVAC technician. These prices can be even higher in the event of an emergency.

The size of your repair bill will depend largely on which type of radiator you have in your home, whether it's hot water, steam, or electric. Each type can have its own array of issues. Hot water radiators will typically cost between $150 and $500 to repair. They rely on a boiler system that heats the water and forces it through pipes to heat the surrounding area. These types can face problems with leaks, valve issues, or trapped air and clogs.

Steam radiators also use a boiler, but they circulate steam instead of hot water. Because they're similar to hot water radiators, they too can be plagued with broken valves, leaks, clogs, and corrosion. The average cost to fix a steam radiator ranges between $175 and $600. Finally, electric radiators forgo plumbing altogether and use electricity to produce heat, usually through a coil. Typically, electric radiators are the cheapest to fix, with repair bills averaging between $125 and $425. They could potentially have a problem with a fuse, wiring, the heating element, or the thermostat.

In addition to the type of radiator, several other factors can affect repair costs. These include the materials your radiators are made of, how severe the problem is, how complicated your heating system is, where it's located and if it's easy to access, and the total number of radiators in your home. The age of your heating system will also come into play. Older systems may have extensive problems or need parts that cost more and are harder to find. 

No matter how old your radiators are, the best way to keep them running smoothly is to inspect them regularly and maintain them well. Rust on a radiator, while also unsightly, can eventually affect how well it works. Did you know you can try an aluminum foil hack from Pinterest to clean rust from your radiator? But if your radiator is super rusty or cracked inside, you might want to consider replacing it entirely. The average cost to replace a system — depending on its type — ranges from $1,000 to $3,500, with steam types typically being the most expensive.