by Ben Wanner of Pro Service Mechanical

A question many new and long time homeowners may ask is, “how much will it cost to replace my furnace?” Whether your budgeting for improvements in the near future or replacing your furnace now, this article should give you a good idea of what you will spend on a furnace retrofit in Saskatoon. Keep in mind that prices can vary from contractor to contractor. These estimates are based on our prices as of August 25, 2017. These prices are general estimates only. A comfort specialist would need to perform an onsite estimate to determine the actual cost of your installation.

Factors That Determine The Price Of Your New Heating System

Here we will talk about some of the issues that can affect the price of your installation. Keep in mind that we are only discussing Natural Gas forced air heating systems.

Level Of Difficulty

If you have an unfinished basement and easy access to electrical, plumbing and ductwork you should expect that this will cost less than if you have a furnace built in to a closet in the basement. Sometimes our installers have to move the furnace due to renovations or we may have to change duct work size to accommodate air conditioning. Often if a water heater is using the old chimney it will have to be resized in the flue. This of course should all be discussed during your in home quote.

Required Size (Heating Capacity)

The bigger your house the bigger the furnace you will need in most cases. If you have to buy a larger furnace expect that the price will increase from a smaller furnace.

Stages of Heating (Single Stage, Two Stage, Multi Stage)

• Single Stage Heating – Furnace comes on at full capacity until the thermostat is satisfied and then shuts off
• Two Stage Heating – Furnace comes on at a lower capacity and runs quitter and more efficient longer, making more even heating. Second stage of heating for high demand only.
• Multi Stage Heating – Furnace can heat at several different capacities. Best option for maximum comfort and efficiency.

AFUE (efficiency of the furnace over a heating season)

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency or AFUE can range from 90 to about 98% on a high efficiency condensing gas furnace. The more efficient the furnace generally the better the product and the higher the price.

Type of Fan Motor

Your furnace will either come with a

• Standard AC Current PSC Motor – basic operation, comes on full speed and then shuts off
• ECM Constant Torque Motor – Uses less energy, comes on at one speed
• ECM Variable Speed Motor – Best option, uses less energy, comes on very slowly, only runs as fast as needed, more comfortable, very quiet

Add Ons (Air Purification, UV lights, WIFI thermostat, HRV etc)

There are many add on features available when purchasing your new furnace. Most of these are not necessary but can greatly improve your comfort and indoor air quality. Ask your Comfort Specialist about these options. A good Comfort Specialist will find options that work for you, if you feel they are necessary.

Pricing

Base Model Furnace

• Single Stage Heat (typically 92 to 93 AFUE)
• PSC motor
• Price Range $3600 to $4800

Better Model Furnace

• Two Stage Heat (typically 95 to 96 AFUE)
• ECM Constant torque or Variable Speed Fan Motor
• Price Range $4350 to $6600

Best Model Furnace

• Multi Stage Heat (typically 98 AFUE)
• Variable Speed Fan Motor
• Price Range $7500 to $8100

What about after it’s installed?

A good furnace contractor will ensure your equipment is registered for all warranties. Most of these furnaces will come with a 10 year parts warranty and a limited lifetime heat exchanger warranty. You can also ask your contractor about a maintenance contract to ensure your furnace is looked after on a periodic basis. At the very least you should be going with a contractor who has 24/7/365 service.

Looking for Furnace Service Or A New Heating And/or Cooling System At Your Home?

Click the van to find out more about our $115 Home Furnace Tune-up!

If you have any other questions or concerns about Cooling, Heating or Plumbing call the pros from Pro Service at 306-230-2442. We have 24/7 365 emergency service and we are always here to help.