How Much Does Furnace Installation Cost?
Furnace installation is a significant investment, whether you are replacing a non-working unit or installing a completely new system in Houston, TX. Often, homeowners choose to install the same type of system in order to save or minimize the costs associated with additional installation of duct work or electric lines. However, there may be reasons to change. The location of your home, its size, and your typical energy bill are factors to consider when making a decision.
Find The Right Furnace
Most furnaces last an average of 15 to 20 years, so it’s likely that there are numerous options that didn’t exist the last time you purchased a furnace. A residential furnace powered by natural gas may cost between $2,500 and $14,000. An oil furnace can cost between $2,000 and $8,000 to install, more if duct work is required. Gas furnaces tend to be less efficient.
Installing electric heat is also an option. The cost of installation ranges, on average, from $1,000 to $2,000. However, this is not considered a good option for heating large spaces due to the large amount of energy use reflected in your monthly bill. A newer option is a heat pump. A heat pump pulls heat from the ground or the air using refrigerant coils. Ground source heat pumps can cost anywhere between $7,000 and $25,000 while an air source heat pump can cost between $1,500 and $7,000.
Estimated Costs Of Furnace Labor And Warranties
Furnace installation can cost you approximately $75 per hour for a licensed installer with an additional $50 for a helper. Costs in your area may vary. So, for an eight-hour install, this comes to $1,000. If extensive duct work, repair, or modification is required, or if the new furnace is significantly different in size than the old one, the cost can run higher.
Furnace installation and function is covered by two warranties. First, the manufacturer’s warranty that comes with the furnace and covers defects in the furnace itself, such as fans or pilot lights that don’t work properly. Then, the contractor’s warranty covers the installation and includes repairs if the furnace doesn’t work properly. The contractor’s warranty is generally good for 5 to 10 years, and some contractors offer extended warranties for an additional charge.
If you feel confused by the issues of heating system tune ups and maintenance, yet know your furnace needs a hard look from a top-quality contractor, check out heating specialists in the Houston area.