How much will your heating system installation or replacement cost?
Columbus, OH 43215
Furnace replacement costs$1,320 - $7,819
National average fixed price
- Most common low price:$1,320
- Most common high price:$7,819
How much does it cost to replace a furnace?
By Alyssa Chua
Last updated Mon, Aug 11
The national average cost of installing or replacing a furnaces ranges anywhere from $1,320-$7,819, with most paying an avaerage of $3,215, according to Thumbtack data. The total cost to install a new furnace depends on the parts that need fixing or replacing, the size of the furnace, the type of your furnace, and many more factors.
| National average cost | $3,215 |
|---|---|
| Low-end average cost | $1,320 |
| High-end average cost | $7,819 |
Because costs can vary, it’s best to get quotes from an HVAC professional near you. Download the Thumbtack app to see top-rated pros near you, and continue reading this article to find out what else might impact the cost of your new furnace.
Table of Contents
- Furnace replacement cost factors
- What is the most expensive part to replace in a furnace?
- Long-term savings tips for new furnaces
- Is it cheaper to replace the AC and furnace together?
- Cost of DIY vs. hiring a pro to install your new furnace
- Is a new furnace worth the cost?
- Get free quotes from HVAC pros near you.
- FAQs
Furnace replacement cost factors
Here's a look at some of the biggest factors that impact furnace installation costs:
Type of furnace
Currently, there are generally three main types of furnaces available on the market: oil, electric, and gas furnaces. Consult an HVAC professional to better understand the cost of buying and installing each system. Typically, electric furnaces tend to be cheaper to install than oil and natural gas furnaces.
Furnace size
A furnace’s size determines how much heat it can produce — measured in British thermal units (BTUs). The larger your home is, the larger your furnace should be. But the larger your furnace is, the more you will likely have to spend.Bigger doesn’t always mean better, however. You’ll find that having the appropriate furnace size for a smaller home is more efficient, preventing you from wasting fuel and money.
If you aren’t sure what size furnace to get, hire a professional to calculate it for you. They’ll need to factor in the size of your home, the number of windows you have, your house’s floor plan, the condition of your ductwork, and more.
Furnace efficiency
A furnace's energy efficiency rating also drives its cost up or down. The energy efficiency is determined by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). AFUE measures how efficient your furnace is in converting the energy from fuel to heat in a typical year.Naturally, the higher the efficiency, the more expensive your furnace will be. High-efficiency furnaces achieve between 90-98.5% AFUE ratings.
Removing the existing furnace
Installing a new furnace also includes removing the old one. Some professionals, however, may charge separately for it. Ask your pro how much it will cost to get rid of your existing heating system's components.
Furnace modifications
When installing a new furnace, it's important to ensure it aligns with your existing gas line, electrical hookup, and exhaust venting. If not, your contractor may need to make additional modifications, including installing a new gas line, PVC piping, or extra wiring. This will also bring up costs.
If you're shifting from one type of furnace to another — from gas to electric, for example — you’ll need to change your vents as they burn differently. If you’re changing the furnace of an old home, you’ll also want a professional to inspect your ductwork to check for leaks or blockages.
Other furnace features
You may also want a furnace that goes beyond the basics. For example, you may consider a furnace with a variable-speed blower, which provides better control over airflow during heating and cooling. Or, you may be interested in a multi-stage furnace that has a more robust heating system.
Furnaces with certain features may cost more. Do your research and consult your pro if you need help deciding what features are worth the cost.
Permit fees
You'll probably need to get a permit to install a new furnace. This may incur a small fee. The permit process usually involves a professional inspection to ensure your new furnace is up to code and safe to use.
The cost and type of the permit vary per location, so it’s best to check what your county or city requires.
Find the right heating specialist for your project.
What is the most expensive part to replace in a furnace?
Replacing or repairing your furnace can be expensive, so you must plan your budget wisely. Some of the most expensive parts of a furnace are the blower motor, the circuit board, and the draft inducer motor.
Long-term savings tips for new furnaces
Replacing your furnace isn't an easy or cheap project. That's why it's important to make sure your furnace stays in great condition so it lasts a long time — and saves you money down the line.
Get a high-efficiency furnace
While they're typically more expensive up front, energy-efficient furnaces will likely help you save money on energy bills in the long run. You may also be able to take advantage of tax credits and incentives. Visit the ENERGY STAR website for more information.
Tip: You may also want to consider getting a heat pump along with your gas furnace. This type of system is often referred to as a dual-fuel or hybrid system. According to the Department of Energy, "In comparison with a combustion fuel-fired furnace or standard heat pump alone, this type of system can also be more economical."
Change your furnace's air filter regularly
Maintaining your furnace and keeping it in good shape can go a long way in bringing down costs. One way to do this is by cleaning or changing your furnace air filters every 30 to 90 days. If you live with pets or in a particularly dusty region, you may want to change it every 30 days.
Schedule regular maintenance and cleaning
In addition to changing the filter, it's a good idea to service your furnace at least once a year. Hire a professional to clean parts and ensure that it's working efficiently.
Is it cheaper to replace the AC and furnace together?
While replacing your air conditioner and furnace at the same time isn't necessary, doing so may help you save on installation costs. If your AC is on the fritz, ask your pro how much it would cost to replace it now, as they're installing your new furnace.
Cost of DIY vs. hiring a pro to install your new furnace
A lot of factors go into the cost of installing a new furnace. Not only do you have to think about the cost of the furnace itself, but installation and labor costs add to the overall cost. You may even need extra work done, such as additional piping or wiring installed.Nevertheless, it’s best to get a pro to install your furnace to ensure the job is done correctly. A poorly installed furnace can result in costly repairs in the future and a decreased lifespan.
See which Heating Specialists are top-rated in your area.
Is a new furnace worth the cost?
Is your current furnace raising your energy bills or making it harder to adjust the thermostat? Did you spend the last winter with unpredictable indoor temperatures? Replacing your furnace isn't cheap. However, it's a worthwhile investment when you factor in energy savings and your overall well-being.
Get free quotes from HVAC pros near you.
Ready to take the next step in replacing your furnace? Download the Thumbtack app today so you can start receiving free cost estimates from HVAC professionals near you.
FAQs
How do I know if I need a new furnace?
Even if you’ve worked hard to maintain your furnace, there will come a day when it will no longer heat your home as efficiently as it used to. Keep a lookout for the following warning signs that indicate it’s probably time to replace your furnace:
Uneven temperature in your home.
Sudden increase in energy bills (especially if you have a high-efficiency furnace).
Cold air or new noises coming from your furnace.
Frequent service calls and expensive repair bills.
Related: Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
How long do furnaces usually last?
A furnace can last 15-25 years, depending on how well you care for it. The more you stay on top of maintenance, the longer your furnace will last.
What size furnace do I need?
Your furnace size depends on the size of your home in square footage and other factors, such as:
Your home's insulation.
Quality of ductwork.
Number, size, and location of windows and doors.
Climate zone.
Heat-generating sources (wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, etc.).
What is the best time of year to buy a furnace?
Buying a new furnace in the spring or summer is usually best because this is when the demand is lower. You may also be able to get other discounts from manufacturers and contractors.
How long does it take to replace an existing furnace?
Installing a furnace takes about an entire day with few modifications, although this may depend on the work needed. If you need ductwork done or additional components like an air purifier or air conditioner, it may take even longer.
*A note about project costs featured in this article: Figures represent national average cost estimates using data provided by Thumbtack pros and additional research. These figures are provided for educational purposes only and are subject to change at any time due to various factors. Details about your specific project and local rates can impact costs.
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