Have you noticed your home doesn’t heat as well as it used to? Maybe you’ve been waking up to a colder house, even though the thermostat says everything is fine. Or perhaps your furnace has been making strange noises lately, signaling that something’s not quite right. Sound familiar? Homeowners across Austin often face the same problem as their furnaces age and lose efficiency.
So, how much does it cost to replace a furnace?
And more importantly, how do you know if it’s time to replace it or if a tune-up could extend its life a bit longer? We’re here to walk you through all of that—and more. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about furnace replacement costs, symptoms of a failing system, and how AC Pros can help you find the most cost-effective solutions for your home.
Is It Time to Replace Your Furnace?
Before we get into the cost of a new furnace, let’s talk about the signs that your furnace might be on its last legs. Replacing a furnace is no small investment, so it’s important to know when it’s truly necessary.
- Your furnace is more than 15 years old
Most furnaces last between 15 and 20 years. If yours is nearing that age, it’s time to start thinking about replacement, especially if you’ve noticed any performance issues. - Increasing energy bills
Have your utility bills been creeping up lately? As furnaces age, they become less efficient and work harder to heat your home, which translates to higher energy costs. If you’re paying significantly more for heating but still feeling chilly, it might be time to consider a new furnace. - Frequent repairs
If you’ve had the HVAC tech out to your house more times than you can count in the past couple of years, you’re likely throwing money at a system that’s on its way out. Frequent breakdowns are a big red flag that a full replacement is more cost-effective in the long run. - Uneven heating
Do some rooms in your home feel warm and toasty while others are ice-cold? This is often a sign of a failing furnace that can’t distribute heat evenly. - Strange noises
Have you been hearing banging, rattling, or screeching sounds from your furnace? These noises often indicate mechanical issues that could mean your system is nearing the end of its life.
If you’re still on the fence about whether a replacement is necessary or if a repair might be the better solution, check out our blog post ‘Furnace Repair: 10 Common Problems and Solutions for Ultimate Home Comfort.’ It covers common furnace issues and how you can solve them—sometimes, a simple fix is all your system needs to get back on track!”
So, How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Furnace? What to Expect.
Now that we’ve gone over the signs, let’s talk numbers. Furnace replacement costs can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of furnace, the size of your home, and the complexity of the installation. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay when it’s time to replace your furnace in Central Texas.
1. Type of Furnace
The cost of a new furnace really depends on the type you choose. Here’s what you can expect based on the furnace type:
- Gas Furnace: $3,000 to $7,500
Gas furnaces are the most common type in Austin homes. They are efficient and reliable but can vary significantly in price based on the brand and efficiency rating. - Electric Furnace: $2,000 to $6,000
Electric furnaces are typically less expensive upfront, but they tend to cost more to operate in the long run due to higher electricity rates. - Oil Furnace: $4,000 to $8,000
Less common in Texas, oil furnaces are more expensive and require regular maintenance for optimal performance. - Propane Furnace: $3,500 to $7,500
Propane furnaces are a great alternative for homes without access to natural gas but come with higher operating costs due to the price of propane.
2. Labor and Installation Costs
Labor costs typically add anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 to the total bill. Installation costs can vary depending on factors like the complexity of the installation and whether any ductwork modifications are needed. The more complex the installation, the higher the labor cost.
3. Furnace Efficiency
Higher efficiency furnaces cost more upfront but save you money over time. Furnaces with an efficiency rating of 90% and above tend to be $1,000 to $3,000 more expensive than standard models but offer significant savings on your energy bills.
4. Additional Costs
Every once in a while, there will be furnace replacement costs that homeowners don’t anticipate:
- Ductwork repairs or upgrades: If your ductwork is outdated or damaged, you may need to invest in repairs, which can cost between $1,000 and $5,000.
- Smart thermostat installation: Want to upgrade to a smart thermostat? This can add $200 to $1,000 to your total cost but can help you save on energy in the long run.
- Zoning systems: Installing a zoning system to better control the temperature in different parts of your home can add $1,000 to $3,000.
Why Choose AC Pros for Your Furnace Replacement?
At AC Pros, we know that replacing a furnace is a big decision, both financially and for your comfort. That’s why we’re committed to helping you make the right choice for your home and your budget.
We’re a family-owned business with deep roots in the Austin community. We understand the specific needs of homeowners in Central Texas, where summers are scorching and winters, while milder, still require a reliable heating system. Our team of NATE-certified technicians provides expert advice, transparent pricing, and flexible financing options to make your furnace replacement as stress-free as possible.
Why Not Try a Furnace Tune-Up First?
Sometimes, a furnace replacement isn’t necessary right away. If your furnace is showing signs of wear but still has some life left in it, a professional tune-up could help extend its lifespan and improve its performance.
At AC Pros, we offer Tune-Up and Free Coolant Top-Off services for your AC unit, helping you maintain your system and avoid a full replacement for as long as possible. Regular maintenance can prevent many of the common issues that lead to costly repairs or replacements.
If your furnace is still under 15 years old and you’re not facing frequent repairs, it might be worth exploring maintenance options before committing to a replacement. Read more here: Fall Furnace Tune-up Checklist: Get Ready For Cold Weather.
Financing Your Furnace Replacement
We understand that a furnace replacement is a significant investment. That’s why we offer flexible financing options to help you get the comfort you need without breaking the bank. Before exploring other financing routes, talk to us first—we’re here to find a plan that works for your budget.
If you’d like to learn more about general financing options, here are some helpful resources:
- Energy.gov Guide to Financing Energy-Efficient Home Improvements
- Forbes- HVAC Loans And Financing Options
- Austin Energy- HVAC Replacement rebates and incentives
These guides can provide additional insights, but remember, we’re here to guide you through the process and find the best solution for you.
How to Save on Furnace Replacement Costs
Replacing a furnace doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few tips to save on furnace replacement costs:
- Schedule your replacement during the off-season
Many HVAC companies are busiest during the spring and summer months. Try to schedule your furnace replacement in the fall or early winter when demand is lower. You might be able to score one of our seasonal discount specials or more flexible scheduling. - Take advantage of rebates
Many energy companies offer rebates for homeowners who upgrade to high-efficiency furnaces. Be sure to check with your local energy provider to see if you qualify for any incentives. - Explore financing options
We offer financing options if you’re looking for help spreading out the cost of your furnace replacement. - Choose a trusted local company
Working with a family-owned company like AC Pros means you’ll get personalized service, transparent pricing, and expert advice—without the inflated costs that often come with big-box companies.
Ready for a Furnace Replacement? Call AC Pros Today!
If you’ve noticed any of the signs, it might be time to consider a furnace replacement. The team at AC Pros is here to help with honest advice, transparent pricing, and expert installation services. We’ll help you choose the right furnace for your home and budget, ensuring your comfort for years to come.
Reach out to us today for a free consultation or to schedule a service. We’re proud to serve homeowners and businesses across Austin and the surrounding areas, and we’re committed to keeping you comfortable all year long.
Your comfort is our priority, and we’re here to make furnace replacement easy and affordable.