“My furnace hasn’t been working properly, and I’m thinking about replacing it. How much does it cost to replace a gas furnace?”
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Here are the top 4 factors that can affect the price of replacing your gas furnace:
- The cost of replacing a gas furnace ranges between $3,500 and $15,000.
- Factors like fuel type, furnace size, efficiency, and contractor choice impact the total cost.
- Investing in a high-efficiency model can lead to long-term energy savings.
- Choosing a qualified contractor ensures proper installation and prevents future costly repairs.
Thinking about replacing your furnace? Then you’re probably worried about the cost. But how much does it cost to replace a gas furnace? Is it really as expensive as you think it will be? Or could it actually be more expensive? Let’s talk about it.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Gas Furnace?
Replacing a gas furnace can cost anywhere between $3,500 and $15,000, depending on multiple factors. The significant variation in price is due to different installation requirements, equipment quality, and labor costs. Below, we break down the top four factors that influence the total cost of your gas furnace replacement.
4 Key Factors Affecting Gas Furnace Replacement Cost
- Fuel Type
The type of fuel your furnace uses is one of the biggest cost factors. Furnaces typically run on gas, electric, or oil, each with distinct pricing and efficiency levels:
- Gas Furnaces: Higher upfront cost but lower long-term operational expenses.
- Electric Furnaces: Cheaper upfront but can be costly to operate over time.
- Oil Furnaces: Mid-range cost but may require additional maintenance.
If you already have an electric furnace and lack access to natural gas, switching to a gas furnace may require retrofitting your home, adding to installation costs.
- Furnace Size
Furnaces are measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), which determine heating capacity. The larger the furnace, the more expensive it is. However, bigger isn’t always better. A furnace should match your home’s specific heating needs, which are determined through a load calculation by an HVAC professional. This calculation considers:
- Home square footage
- Climate and insulation levels
- Ceiling height and number of occupants
- Furnace Efficiency (AFUE Rating)
The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating indicates a furnace’s energy efficiency:
- Standard Efficiency (80-89% AFUE): Lower upfront cost but higher energy bills.
- High Efficiency (90-97% AFUE): Higher initial cost but long-term energy savings.
In Colorado, experts typically recommend gas furnaces with 92%-95% AFUE ratings for optimal energy efficiency and cost savings.
- Choosing the Right Contractor
Not all HVAC contractors charge the same price for installation. Higher-quality contractors may cost more upfront but ensure:
- Proper installation to prevent future repairs.
- Warranty coverage for labor and parts.
- Compliance with local building codes.
Going with the cheapest contractor may lead to rushed work, inefficient operation, and higher repair costs down the line.
Thinking About Replacing Your Gas Furnace?
Want to get a free consultation with a trusted, local HVAC contractor? Contact us today! We offer free estimates on all of our furnace replacement jobs!
