How Much Does Furnace Replacement Cost?

Introduction

You wake up on a chilly L.A. morning and the heat won’t kick on. Now you’re staring down emergency quotes, timelines, and a big decision. Furnace replacement costs can vary widely but with the right information and the right team, you can move forward confidently.

At Air Plus HVAC, Inc., we pair engineering-level diagnostics with clear, honest communication to guide you from first quote to final walkthrough. If you’re noticing odd noises, rising bills, or weak heat, use this guide to understand costs, red flags, and the questions that lead to a fair, accurate proposal for your home.

Repair or Replace? Cost‑Smart Signs for Los Angeles Homes

Catching problems early helps you avoid mid‑season failures and surprise expenses.

Weak or No Heat

If rooms won’t warm evenly or not at all the cause is often undersized equipment, a failing igniter or heat exchanger, or airflow restrictions like a clogged filter, closed registers, or crushed ductwork. Start with safe checks (replace the filter, open supply/return registers, confirm thermostat settings), then schedule diagnostics that include static‑pressure testing and a load calculation so you’re not upsold on the wrong size.

Rising Energy Bills

Year‑over‑year bill spikes with similar weather and usage usually point to declining efficiency from dirty burners, worn blower motors, leaky ducts, or poor combustion. Ask your contractor to show AFUE ratings and provide projected operating costs so you can see how a properly sized, higher‑efficiency unit can offset its upfront price.

Frequent Repairs

When you’re replacing igniters, control boards, and inducers in quick succession, the costs add up and reliability goes down. A practical rule of thumb: if a repair approaches 50% of the price of a new, correctly sized furnace or the unit is well past mid‑life replacement delivers better long‑term value and fewer surprises.

Age & Wear

Most furnaces provide dependable service for about 15–20 years, after which efficiency and reliability taper off. Modern systems offer safer operation, tighter controls, and variable‑speed comfort that can lower utility spend especially when matched to your home’s ductwork and commissioned correctly.

Strange Noises or Odors

Grinding or screeching often indicates motor/bearing problems; booms or bangs may signal delayed ignition; a burning smell can be dust or wiring; a sulfur or rotten‑egg odor points to a gas leak. Power the system down at the switch or breaker, ventilate the space, and call a professional if you suspect gas or carbon monoxide, leave immediately and contact your utility or emergency services.

Furnace Replacement Cost: Typical Ranges & What Drives Price

Typical Nationwide Ranges

For the unit and professional installation, many homes land between $3,000–$8,000. Straightforward replacements can be on the lower end; complex projects and premium systems can exceed $10,000.

What Affects the Cost

Furnace replacement costs are driven by several factors: fuel type, gas, electric, or oil determines equipment and infrastructure needs (gas lines, venting, electrical upgrades); efficiency rating (AFUE) affects upfront price but can lower monthly bills with regular use; right‑sizing via proper load calculation prevents short cycling, uneven rooms, and premature wear; installation complexity (duct modifications, venting changes, condensate management, code/permit requirements, and access constraints) adds labor; brand/features (advanced controls, variable‑speed blowers, and extended warranties) influence price; and site conditions such as removing old equipment, correcting prior workmanship, or addressing safety issues can affect the final total.

What to Do If You Notice Red Flags

Shut the system down if you smell burning or see smoke—use the service switch or breaker and if you smell gas or feel light‑headed, evacuate and contact your utility or emergency services. Next, schedule professional diagnostics covering airflow, static pressure, the heat exchanger, electrical systems, and duct integrity. Request an itemized proposal with equipment model numbers, efficiency ratings, labor, permits, and any duct/vent changes, then compare like‑for‑like by reviewing at least 2–3 estimates with identical specs (capacity, efficiency, scope). Decide on repair versus replacement by weighing age, repair history, energy use, and safety, and ask for projected operating costs and warranty terms. Finally, confirm post‑install checks include commissioning, safety testing, and a homeowner orientation.

How Regular Maintenance Prevents Early Replacement

Seasonal tune‑ups keep systems efficient and catch issues before they become breakdowns.

Benefits of Professional Maintenance

• Clears debris and improves airflow
• Identifies worn parts early
• Maintains manufacturer warranty compliance
• Reduces mid‑season failures
• Preserves efficiency to help lower utility spend

Did you know?

Neglected systems can lose notable efficiency over time due to dust buildup and wear. Routine maintenance helps protect performance and comfort. Air Plus HVAC’s Smart Care plan includes a 21‑point inspection, biannual tune‑ups, priority scheduling, and service discounts engineered to keep your system reliable and efficient season after season.

FAQs: Furnace Replacement Cost

How much should I expect to pay for a full replacement?
Many homeowners spend $3,000–$8,000 for a complete replacement. The final price depends on unit type, efficiency, and installation scope.

Does labor make up a big portion of the cost?
Labor often accounts for 20–40% of the total. This includes setup, duct/vent changes, commissioning, and haul‑away.

Can I convert from one fuel type to another (e.g., oil → gas)?
Yes, but conversions can require gas line, venting, or electrical changes that add to the project cost. Always have a licensed professional assess safety and code compliance.

When is replacement smarter than repair?
If your system is 15+ years old, needs frequent repairs, or has a compromised heat exchanger/efficiency, replacement often makes more sense. A professional assessment can confirm whether repair dollars will simply delay an inevitable replacement.

Will a high‑efficiency furnace pay off?
In colder or higher‑usage scenarios, the investment often pays off. Energy savings and improved comfort can offset the higher initial price over time.

Making Your Decision with Air Plus HVAC, Inc.

Furnace replacement is a meaningful investment. Our team brings engineering expertise, a solution‑focused approach, and exceptional communication to every project. We start with precise measurements and diagnostics, review duct conditions, discuss options, and provide an itemized, transparent proposal tailored to your home and budget.

Local to Los Angeles. We serve North Hollywood, Glendale, Burbank, Pasadena, West LA, Beverly Hills, Studio City, Van Nuys, Northridge, and surrounding areas.

Ask about current savings. New system installations may qualify for limited‑time promotions and financing options, plus available maintenance plan benefits.

Ready to get started? Contact Air Plus HVAC, Inc. to schedule your furnace replacement evaluation and restore comfort quickly, safely, and the right way.