2024 Guide to Furnace Systems
Installation Costs, Efficiency, and Brand Comparisons
Are You In The Market For A New Furnace System?
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your home. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about furnace systems, including installation costs, efficiency ratings, and comparisons between popular brands.
Looking to price a new furnace in Utah? Click here to use All Utah Plumbing, Heating & Air furnace cost calculator.
Most people only care about the cost of a new heating system and don’t realize the reasons why certain furnaces and heating systems are more efficient in keeping your home warm and helping you save money.
The average price of a new furnace based on square footage (not including labor cost):
- 800 Square footage: ($2,500+)
- 1500 Square footage: ($4,000+)
- 2000 Square footage ($7,500+)
If you want a custom price recommendation without the hassle, we recommend using a furnace pricing calculator to help you price a new furnace or air conditioner.
$49
Furnace Component Inspection Tune Up
Offers for limited time only.
Instant Pricing On A New Furnace or Air Conditioner
We’ll recommend a custom solution based on your home needs, quickly answer a few question about your home.
What is a Furnace System?
A furnace system is a heating unit that is responsible for heating your home. It works by burning fuel, such as gas or oil, to produce heat that is then distributed throughout your home via ductwork. Furnace systems are typically located in a basement, attic, or closet and can be powered by electricity, gas, or oil.
Types of Furnace Systems
There are three main types of furnace systems: single-stage, two-stage, and modulating.
1. Single-Stage Furnace Systems
Single-stage furnace systems are the most basic and traditional type of furnace. They operate at full capacity, meaning they are either on or off, and do not have the ability to adjust their output based on the temperature in your home. This can result in temperature fluctuations and higher energy bills.
2. Two-Stage Furnace Systems
Two-stage furnace systems have two levels of heating output: high and low. This allows them to adjust their output based on the temperature in your home, resulting in more consistent temperatures and lower energy bills.
3. Modulating Furnace Systems
Modulating furnace systems are the most advanced and efficient type of furnace. They have the ability to adjust their output in small increments, providing the most precise and consistent temperatures. This results in lower energy bills and a more comfortable home.
Installation Costs
The cost of installing a furnace system can vary depending on several factors, including the type of furnace, the size of your home, and the complexity of the installation. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $2,500 and $7,500 for a new furnace system installation.
Factors Affecting Furnace Replacement Costs
Type of Furnace
As mentioned, there are three main types of furnace systems, and each type can have a different installation cost. Single-stage furnace systems are typically the least expensive to install, while modulating furnace systems are the most expensive.
Size of Your Home
- The size of your home plays a significant role in the cost of a furnace system installation. Larger homes require larger furnaces, which can increase the overall cost of the installation.
Complexity of Installation
- If your home does not currently have a furnace system, the installation process may be more complex and require additional materials and labor. This can increase the overall cost of the installation.
Additional Costs to Consider
- In addition to the cost of the furnace system and installation, there are a few other costs to consider when purchasing a new furnace.
Ductwork
- If your home does not currently have ductwork, you will need to have it installed to distribute the heat from your furnace system. The cost of ductwork installation can range from $1,500 to $4,000.
Permits and Inspections
- Some areas require permits and inspections for furnace system installations, which can add to the overall cost. Be sure to check with your local government to see if this applies to you.
Maintenance and Repairs
- Furnace systems require regular maintenance to ensure they are running efficiently and to prevent breakdowns. You should also budget for potential repairs in the future.
How To Price A New Furnace?
Using a furnace pricing tool can help you estimate the cost of a new furnace installation based on your home’s specifications and square footage. Our pricing takes into account factors such as the size of your home, the climate in your area, and the type of furnace system you are interested in.
By using a furnace pricing tool, you can get a custom price estimate that is tailored to your specific needs. This can be particularly helpful when comparing different furnace systems and determining which one is the most cost-effective for your home.
*It’s important to note that while a furnace pricing tool can provide you with a rough estimate, it is always recommended to consult with a professional HVAC contractor for an accurate quote. They will consider additional factors such as the layout of your home, any existing ductwork, and any specific installation requirements.
Efficiency Ratings (80% Furnace vs. 90% Furnace Efficiency Ratings)
Furnace systems are rated for efficiency using the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This rating measures the amount of fuel that is converted into heat, with higher ratings indicating a more efficient furnace.
Minimum Efficiency Standards
The minimum AFUE rating for a furnace system is 80%, meaning that at least 80% of the fuel is converted into heat. However, many modern furnace systems have AFUE ratings of 90% or higher.
Comparing Efficiency Ratings
When comparing furnace systems, it’s essential to look at the AFUE rating to determine which system will be the most efficient and cost-effective for your home. While a higher AFUE rating may result in a higher upfront cost, it can save you money in the long run through lower energy bills.
We recommend upgrading your natural gas furnace to 90% if your home meets the requirements, most furnaces in the future will be 90% or above.
Different Fueling Options
- Gas Furnace:
-
- Benefits: Gas furnaces are commonly used because they provide efficient and cost-effective heating. They produce heat quickly and evenly, and the fuel is usually readily available in many areas.
- Considerations: When installing a gas furnace, it’s important to ensure that there is a natural gas supply line available. Additionally, regular maintenance and inspections are necessary to ensure safety and optimal performance.
- Propane Furnace:
-
- Benefits: Propane furnaces are an alternative to gas furnaces for areas where natural gas is not available. Propane is stored in tanks, making it accessible even in remote locations. Propane furnaces are known for their high energy efficiency.
- Considerations: The cost of propane can vary depending on location and market conditions. Propane tanks need to be regularly refilled, and the associated costs should be considered.
- Oil Furnace:
-
- Benefits: Oil furnaces are a common choice in areas where natural gas or propane is not readily available. They provide reliable heating and can be more cost-effective compared to electric furnaces in some regions.
- Considerations: Oil furnaces require an on-site oil storage tank, which needs regular refilling. Additionally, oil furnaces may require more maintenance and can be less energy-efficient compared to gas or electric furnaces.
- Electric Furnace:
-
- Benefits: Electric furnaces are highly efficient, converting nearly all the energy they consume into heat. They are generally more environmentally friendly since they produce no carbon emissions during operation.
- Considerations: Electric furnaces can be more expensive to operate compared to gas or oil furnaces, especially in areas where electricity costs are high. Additionally, electric furnaces may not be suitable for extremely cold climates where they may struggle to provide sufficient heat.
It’s important to consider factors such as fuel availability, energy cost, and climate when choosing the right fueling option for your furnace system. Consulting with a professional HVAC technician can help determine the best choice for your specific needs and location.
Thermostats and Smart Technology
Furnace thermostats and smart technology are important to enhance the efficiency and convenience of furnace systems.
Thermostats are devices that control the temperature in your home by communicating with the furnace system. Traditional thermostats allow you to manually adjust the temperature, while smart thermostats offer advanced features and connectivity options.
Smart thermostats
Such as the popular Nest Learning Thermostat or Ecobee SmartThermostat, can be controlled remotely using your smartphone or computer. They use sensors and algorithms to learn your heating preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, optimizing energy usage and saving you money on utility bills.
- Geofencing technology: In addition to remote control, smart thermostats offer various features like scheduling, geofencing, and energy reports. Scheduling allows you to set specific temperature settings for different times of the day, ensuring optimal comfort and energy efficiency. Geofencing technology uses your smartphone’s location to automatically adjust the temperature when you leave or return home. Energy reports provide insights into your energy consumption, helping you identify areas for improvement.
Furthermore, smart thermostats can integrate with other smart home devices, such as voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This integration allows you to control your furnace system using voice commands, further enhancing convenience and ease of use.
It is important to note that not all furnace systems are compatible with smart thermostats, so it’s crucial to check compatibility before making a purchase.
Popular Furnace Brands and Comparisons
There are many furnace brands on the market, but some of the most popular include Empire Heating Systems, Carrier, and Lennox. Let’s take a closer look at these brands and compare their furnace systems.
Kindly note that your request may be unrelated to the content of the article. However, I can provide some information about York furnaces.
York
York is a well-known brand in the furnace industry. They are known for making high-quality and reliable products. One of their popular furnace systems is the York 90% furnace. This furnace is designed to be very efficient, with a rating of 90% AFUE. This means that 90% of the fuel it uses is turned into heat, which helps homeowners save energy and money.
The York 90% furnace is also durable and operates quietly. It is made with good materials and advanced technology to ensure it lasts a long time and doesn’t make much noise. It is recommended to talk to an HVAC contractor to get an accurate price estimate.
Empire Heating Systems
Empire Heating Systems is a well-known brand in the furnace industry, known for its high-quality and efficient products. One of their most popular furnace systems is the Empire Heating Systems Wall Furnace.
This furnace system has an AFUE rating of 82%, making it an efficient option for homeowners. It also has a compact design, making it a great choice for smaller homes or spaces.
Carrier
Carrier is another popular brand in the furnace industry, known for its innovative and energy-efficient products. One of their top furnace systems is the Carrier Infinity 98 Gas Furnace.
This furnace system has an impressive AFUE rating of 98.5%, making it one of the most efficient options on the market. It also has a modulating design, providing precise and consistent temperatures.
Lennox
Lennox is a well-respected brand in the furnace industry, known for its high-quality and reliable products. One of their top furnace systems is the Lennox SLP98V Variable-Capacity Gas Furnace.
This furnace system has an impressive AFUE rating of 98.7%, making it one of the most efficient options available. It also has a modulating design and is equipped with advanced technology for optimal performance.
Popular Furnace Brands and Comparisons
There are many furnace brands on the market, but some of the most popular include Empire Heating Systems, Carrier, and Lennox. Let’s take a closer look at these brands and compare their furnace systems.
Kindly note that your request may be unrelated to the content of the article. However, I can provide some information about York furnaces.
York
York is a well-known brand in the furnace industry. They are known for making high-quality and reliable products. One of their popular furnace systems is the York 90% furnace. This furnace is designed to be very efficient, with a rating of 90% AFUE. This means that 90% of the fuel it uses is turned into heat, which helps homeowners save energy and money.
The York 90% furnace is also durable and operates quietly. It is made with good materials and advanced technology to ensure it lasts a long time and doesn’t make much noise. It is recommended to talk to an HVAC contractor to get an accurate price estimate.
Empire Heating Systems
Empire Heating Systems is a well-known brand in the furnace industry, known for its high-quality and efficient products. One of their most popular furnace systems is the Empire Heating Systems Wall Furnace.
This furnace system has an AFUE rating of 82%, making it an efficient option for homeowners. It also has a compact design, making it a great choice for smaller homes or spaces.
Carrier
Carrier is another popular brand in the furnace industry, known for its innovative and energy-efficient products. One of their top furnace systems is the Carrier Infinity 98 Gas Furnace.
This furnace system has an impressive AFUE rating of 98.5%, making it one of the most efficient options on the market. It also has a modulating design, providing precise and consistent temperatures.
Lennox
Lennox is a well-respected brand in the furnace industry, known for its high-quality and reliable products. One of their top furnace systems is the Lennox SLP98V Variable-Capacity Gas Furnace.
This furnace system has an impressive AFUE rating of 98.7%, making it one of the most efficient options available. It also has a modulating design and is equipped with advanced technology for optimal performance.
So What’s The Best Furnace?
When it comes to choosing a furnace system for your home, consider factors such as installation costs, efficiency ratings, and brand comparisons. We usually recommend York because we repair those the least but each furnace has its strengths and weaknesses. Call us today and consult about installations, repairs or HVAC pricing.
