Hey there, Tony Marino here. If you're in the market for a new furnace or looking to replace your old one, I know the first question you’re asking is, “How much is a new furnace?”
The cost of a new furnace can vary significantly depending on several factors like the size of your home, the type of system you choose, and whether you're pairing it with a new air conditioner. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the typical costs of a furnace replacement, what affects the furnace cost, and how to get a furnace and AC replacement that’s efficient and fits your budget.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of how much you can expect to pay for a new furnace, how to save on furnace replacement cost, and what you should look for when replacing both your furnace and air conditioner.
💰 How Much Does a New Furnace Cost?
So, you’re asking, “How much is a new furnace?” Let me break it down for you.
Furnace Replacement Costs
The cost to replace a furnace varies depending on several factors, including the furnace type, the size of your home, and the installation requirements. Here’s a quick rundown:
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Basic Furnace Replacement: A standard furnace replacement can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $6,500. This includes both the cost of the furnace itself and the installation fees. For smaller homes or standard efficiency models, you’ll be on the lower end of that price range.
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High-Efficiency Furnace: If you opt for a high-efficiency furnace with a higher AFUE rating, expect to pay between $4,000 and $8,000. High-efficiency furnaces are designed to save you money on energy bills, but they come with a higher upfront price tag.
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Larger Systems: For larger homes or systems that need additional work, such as upgrades to your ductwork, the cost of a new furnace and installation can reach $10,000 or more.
Factors like system size (measured in tons), energy efficiency, and brand will affect the price. But whether you’re looking for a basic model or a more efficient option, knowing the range will help you plan ahead.
Key Factors Affecting Furnace Cost
Here are the main factors that influence the furnace replacement price:
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Size of the System (BTU Rating): The size of your furnace is typically determined by the BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating. Larger homes or homes in colder climates may require higher BTU systems to keep up with the heating demand. Bigger systems tend to cost more.
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Efficiency Rating (AFUE): The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating measures how efficiently the furnace uses fuel. A higher AFUE rating means better efficiency and lower operating costs, but it will generally come with a higher price. Furnaces with AFUE ratings of 90% or higher are considered high-efficiency models.
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Ductwork & Ventilation: If your ducts need to be replaced or you don’t have existing ductwork, it can add to the overall cost to install a furnace. Ductwork installation can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the complexity.
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Installation Location: Installation costs will vary depending on the location of your furnace. If the installation is straightforward, it will be less expensive. However, if there are challenges such as limited space or if you need to install a new flue or chimney, it may increase the cost.
To better understand furnace and AC replacement cost, check out this HVAC cost estimator for a more specific breakdown.
🔧 What’s Included in Furnace Replacement?
When you receive an estimate for furnace replacement, it’s important to know what’s included. Here’s a typical breakdown of what’s involved:
1. The Furnace Itself
The price of a new furnace installed includes the furnace unit itself. The cost of the unit will depend on the brand, efficiency, and size. Expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $6,000 for the furnace itself, depending on the factors mentioned above.
2. Labor Costs
Installation labor typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. This depends on the complexity of the job and the contractor’s rates. Some contractors offer flat rates, while others may charge hourly. Be sure to get quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices.
3. Ductwork or Ventilation
If your current ducts are outdated or you don’t have existing ducts, new ductwork could add $1,000 to $4,000 to the overall cost. This is a key consideration if you’re also installing a new air conditioning unit at the same time.
4. Permits and Inspections
Some local areas require permits to replace a furnace. These permits typically cost between $100 and $500, depending on your region’s regulations. Additionally, some municipalities may require an inspection after installation, which could add to the overall price.
🌡️ How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Heater?
If your home’s heating system isn’t working as efficiently as it should be, or if it’s more than 15 years old, you may be considering a full heater replacement. Replacing an old furnace with a new heating system can improve efficiency, reduce energy bills, and provide better overall comfort.
The average cost to replace a furnace (including both furnace and installation) ranges from $2,500 to $8,000. This price can vary depending on whether you’re simply replacing the furnace or upgrading to a higher-efficiency system. Keep in mind that additional costs for ductwork, insulation, or other modifications could add to the total price.
❄️ Furnace and AC Replacement: What About the Cost of a New Furnace and Air Conditioner?
Now, let’s talk about replacing both your furnace and air conditioner. This is a common situation for homeowners who need to upgrade their whole HVAC system.
The Furnace and AC Replacement Cost:
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Cost to Replace Furnace and AC: Replacing both the furnace and air conditioner typically costs $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of your home, the units you choose, and the complexity of the installation.
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New Furnace and Air Conditioner Cost: The price of a new furnace and air conditioner can be split between the two systems. You might pay $2,500 to $6,500 for the furnace, and $3,000 to $8,000 for the air conditioning unit.
If you’re planning on replacing both units at the same time, it’s usually more cost-effective to do it all at once. You can save on installation costs, as the same contractor can handle both systems.
For an in-depth guide on replacing both your furnace and air conditioner, take a look at this HVAC replacement guide.
💡 How to Save on Furnace and AC Replacement Costs
If you’re worried about the cost to replace furnace and AC, there are a few ways to save money:
1. Buy a High-Efficiency Furnace and AC System
While high-efficiency systems might cost more upfront, they save you money in the long run by reducing your energy bills. Look for models with high AFUE ratings for furnaces and high SEER ratings for air conditioners.
2. Get Multiple Quotes
Always get multiple estimates from different contractors. Prices can vary widely, and getting several quotes allows you to compare costs and services before making a decision.
3. Consider Financing Options
Some HVAC companies offer financing options, which can make the upfront cost of a new furnace and air conditioner more manageable. Make sure to check interest rates and terms before agreeing to financing.
4. Check for Rebates or Discounts
Manufacturers and utility companies sometimes offer rebates or discounts on high-efficiency HVAC systems. Be sure to check if any rebates apply to the furnace and air conditioner you’re considering.
🔑 Final Thoughts: What Should You Expect to Pay for a Furnace and AC Replacement?
So, how much does a furnace and air conditioner cost to install? Here’s a summary of the key takeaways:
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The cost of a new furnace can range from $2,500 to $8,000, depending on the system’s size and efficiency.
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When replacing both the furnace and AC, expect to pay between $5,000 and $15,000.
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To save on installation, consider upgrading both systems at the same time to take advantage of lower combined labor costs.
If you want to invest in a high-quality, energy-efficient HVAC system, the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Bundle is an excellent option to consider, providing great performance and long-term savings.
