Replacing a furnace is almost never fun, but that doesn't mean that it's not necessary from time to time. One of the hardest parts about having a new furnace installation performed is estimating the costs that come along with it. While most contractors won't be able to give you an estimate that nails it down to the exact penny, they can give you a good ballpark idea of what you should expect to pay. Before you do that, you should estimate the cost on your own first, if for no other reason than to have a clear idea of what type of unit you should buy and prepare your budget accordingly. Below are some tips to help you do precisely that.
Is It a New System or an Extension?
If you've got a brand-new home installation, you should be looking at a system that can handle the workload. Central air furnaces and geothermal heat pumps are designed to heat a larger area, while a ductless mini-split and portable heaters are used to heat up a much smaller area, such as a converted garage or a shed. If all you need is an extension onto an existing system, your cost will be substantially lower than a brand-new system, especially if you can integrate the system into your existing setup.
Are You Installing it Yourself?
Generally speaking, most HVAC contractors discourage any homeowner from installing a furnace themselves, for safety reasons. If you are insistent on doing your own furnace installation, then you can cut the labor costs significantly, which is usually the most expensive part. You have to be aware of the potential dangers that can come with installing your own system, not only to yourself but also to your home. Furthermore, if you are running a gas line to heat your home, you'll need a professional to do that since working on gas is illegal in many states.
Are You Using the Existing Ductwork?
If you already have ductwork installed in your home, there's a good chance that you can use it for your new system. Talk to your HVAC contractor to be sure, but if so, that will substantially cut down the cost of your new furnace installation since all you be paying for is the parts and labor on the unit itself. They may recommend a different type of ductwork for your house, however, since different furnaces and heating systems require different ways to spread that heat throughout your house, so be ready to replace it if necessary.
Reach out to a professional for more information about furnace installations.
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