How much does it cost to replace a furnace?
Cost of furnace replacement determined by number of factors and total expenses primary depend on price of furnace and labor cost to complete the work. While calculating total expenditures for installing new furnace additional factors should always be taken into account. HVAC contractor will calculate the cost after in-home inspection and analyzing work complexity. Itemized estimate will reflect all charges and fees associated with the furnace installation as well as expenses for all necessary materials which have to be purchased to complete the replacement successfully.
Estimating furnace installation cost
Furnace prices comparison |
|
Furnace prices vary greatly and depend on fuel type the furnace use, size and maximum amount of heat unit can generate. Smaller 60,000 BTU up or down flow forced air gas furnace one of the least expensive options and can be a good solution for a two bedroom 1,100 – 1,300 square feet house. Bigger 240-volt electric duct furnace which can heat a 2,600 – 2, 800 sq ft house will have a higher price. Even though materials cost will increase it is very typical to install combo units which include gas furnace for heating and air conditioner for cooling the air. Quality 90,000 BTU, 13 SEER, 4 ton cooling capacity combo can easily cost 30% – 40% more comparing to unit which will work as a heater only, but due to convenience of use it is a much more preferable option.
Determining labor cost for furnace replacement |
|
Cost of labor depends on what will be involved during furnace installation. If all ducts, gas and water pipes are ready as well as electrical outlets are in place the charge for replacement will be minimal. If opening walls or (and) ceiling will be unavoidable labor cost will increase significantly.
Shopping for a new furnace |
|
There are many standard heaters available in stock at local home improvement retailers, but homeowners should avoid purchasing any product simply based on cheapest price. House size, number of floors and maximum heating output of furnace should be properly evaluated before making a final decision. HVAC contractor will recommend which product will work well in every particular case.
Estimating installation time |
|
Difficulty of work will defined replacement time. Disconnecting, removing and installing a new furnace which is the same or similar to old one should be completed by professional installer with a helper in 5 – 8 hours. Installing new ducts, replacing gas or (and) water pipes, running new electric supply lines will consume much more time. Replacing old radiator heaters with new forced-air system in 1,900 – 2,100 ft2 4 bedroom house will take up to two weeks to complete the project.
Work complexity |
|
Professional installation is essentially important while planning on furnace replacement. Doesn’t matter whether it is a gas boiler or high efficient electric heater, investing into materials but trying to cut labor expenses and do it yourself with no experience is never a smart idea. Poor performed work might cause multiple problems and the whole house heating system won’t work properly. For such reason it is always better to hire a professional HVAC contractor who will guaranty the work quality.