The cost of a new air conditioning and furnace system is an important financial decision for homeowners who want to maintain year-round comfort in their homes. Generally, upgrading both systems together offers better value from the start and reduces the risk of expensive repairs and system failures down the road.
Investing in new heating and cooling equipment typically represents one major expenditure. However, this significant expense usually delivers long-term returns through improved energy efficiency, better performance, and dependable operation. In the sections that follow, we’ll examine the cost to replace air conditioning unit and furnace, discuss the advantages of installing both systems at the same time, and cover additional factors you should weigh when making your purchase decision.
Reasons to Replace Your Furnace and Air Conditioner at the Same Time
Updating both systems at the same time has multiple perks for your home and your budget – far more than convenience alone:
Lower Total Costs: If you bundle your furnace and air conditioner installation together, you will likely pay less in labor and additional costs, overall saving you more than if you installed these separately.
Improved Efficiency: Modern HVAC systems are designed to work together as a matched system, improving the overall energy efficiency of your home and reducing your month-to-month utility bills.
Avoiding Problems: If your existing heater and air conditioning systems are getting older, replacing both will help you avoid sudden failures and expensive emergency service calls.
Homeowners that upgrade their furnace and air conditioner at the same time tend to be more satisfied with overall comfort indoors and do not need as many service visits. Installing both systems together rather than separately will makes more financial sense in the long run.
Factors Influencing Furnace and AC Unit Cost
Understanding the factors that impact replacement costs for your furnace and air conditioning equipment helps you plan your budget effectively. Here are important variables to keep in mind:
Square Footage and Heating/Cooling Load: Larger homes necessitate systems with larger BTU output. Higher output equipment is usually associated with higher pricing. Making sure you are selecting systems that are designed to the size of your house will enable you to operate efficiently and maintain comfort before the replacement is put into action.
System Configuration: Split systems which have the indoor unit separated from the outdoor unit remain the most popular options available. Packaged systems have all of the options housed in a single cabinet and are good systems for smaller installs without much space. Your options have direct correlations to your replacement costs and how the systems will be installed into your property.
Manufacturer and Efficiency Ratings: Well known manufacturers often have a high upfront expense, but generally are more reliable and provide longer savings on energy than lower cost options. In addition, ENERGY STAR® rating certified systems typically have a higher upfront absorption but will save you on utility and your return over its operational life outweighs the premium.
Installation Requirements: Any additional components, including duct work or changes to utility electricals, will enhance your costs for replacement furnaces and air conditioners.
Geographical Location: The direct costs of installation costs and permits will change with your location and incur an added expense in your budget for replacing the furnace and air conditioner, respectively.
Average Costs of Replacing a Furnace and Air Conditioner
So, how much can you expect to pay to replace both your furnace and air conditioning unit? The price varies based on the factors mentioned earlier, but here’s a rough estimate:
| System Type | Average Cost Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Split System | $5,000 – $12,500 | Includes separate furnace and AC units; popular for most homes. |
| High-Efficiency Split | $7,500 – $15,000 | Features variable-speed motors and higher SEER ratings for better efficiency. |
| Heat Pump System | $9,000 – $20,000 | Provides both heating and cooling; ideal for moderate climates. |
| Geothermal System | $20,000 – $100,000+ | Uses ground-source heat exchange; offers excellent efficiency but high upfront cost. |
Bear in mind that these are general estimates, and the final cost may differ depending on your specific circumstances. Be sure to get multiple quotes to compare pricing.
For more detail read our blog: How much does a HVAC system cost?
How Much Does It Cost to Install Furnace and AC Combo?
A furnace and AC combination system is an excellent way to upgrade your home’s HVAC efficiently and cost-effectively. The furnace air conditioner combo cost typically ranges from $5,000 to $8,000, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation. Opting for a combined system can save you generally 10% to 30% compared to purchasing and installing the furnace and AC units separately.
Key Considerations Before Replacing Your Heating and Cooling Systems
Before you make a decision on replacement, consider these factors:
Age and Condition of Your System: If your furnace or air conditioner is over 10 years of age or has required repairs often, replacement may be cheaper than repairing it repeatedly.
Energy Efficient: Energy efficiency can reduce your monthly energy bills and provide better comfort. Look for units with Energy star certification to excel in both improved comfort and lower energy bills.
Replace or Repair: If repairs are frequent for breakdowns, the cost of maintaining older systems will be higher than replacement.
Compatibility: Make sure the new furnace and air conditioning systems work together and are compatible with your home’s current construction system.
Different options for Heating and Cooling Systems
When upgrading both your furnace and air conditioner, you’ll encounter several system types to choose from. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular configurations:
Split System: This traditional arrangement would denote using components that are separate for indoor and outdoor systems and operate independently. This is typically the preferred system for most residential homes.
Packaged Unit: An all-in-one system that utilizes a single cabinet to provide both heating and cooling. These are an ideal system if there is not much room for two units to be installed.
Hybrid Systems: These adaptable systems use a gas furnace in conjunction with a heat pump to provide heating and cooling. These systems can be more energy efficient with the option to operate in different modes.
Geothermal Systems: These systems can be very energy efficient and environmentally friendly by harnessing stable underground earth temperatures in heating and cooling; however, they require a significantly larger investment upfront.
How to Save Money on Furnace and AC Replacement
Replacing your furnace and air conditioner is a significant investment, but there are ways to save:
Financing Options: many hvac companies offer low or zero interest financing; there may be rebates or incentives in your local area for buying local energy-efficient upgrades.
Hire an Installer: HVAC systems must follow many codes when installed; do not try it yourself, hire a a professional.
Maintenance Plans: having your heating and cooling system services will help extend lifespan of your heating and cooling system and efficiency which also replaces the cost of maintenance.
What’s Included in Your Furnace and AC Replacement Cost?
It’s important to be clear on what you are paying for when it comes to quotes:
- The price of the furnace and the air conditioning units
- The cost of installation and removal of the old units
- Any extra duct or electrical work if needed.
- Seeing if it includes any permit or disposal fees
- Making sure any tax and charges are included too
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Your Furnace and AC
When upgrading your furnace and air conditioner, steer clear of these frequent errors:
- Selecting equipment that’s improperly sized for your home, either oversized or undersized, which can compromise both comfort levels and system efficiency
- Overlooking energy efficiency specifications – whenever feasible, prioritize ENERGY STAR certified models
- Skipping a professional assessment of your home before finalizing your equipment selection
How Long Does a Furnace and Air Conditioner Last?
Most air conditioners and furnaces can perform properly for 10-15 years. After this period, efficiency begins to decline and repair frequency usually increases. If your air conditioner or furnace is this age, you may want to consider replacement options especially if you are experiencing any problems with performance. Being proactive about replacing your system will provide you with peace of mind and savings in your energy bill and repair costs.
Conclusion: Is Replacing Your Furnace and AC Worth the Investment?
In conclusion, replacing both your furnace and air conditioner at the same time is a smart investment for many homeowners. Not only does it save you money on installation, but it also improves your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. By considering factors like unit size, system type, energy efficiency, and installation complexity, you can make a decision that benefits both your budget and your home’s overall functionality. Always consult with a professional HVAC technician to help guide your decision-making process, ensuring that you choose the best system for your needs.
Get a Free Quote on Furnace & AC Replacement
Thinking about replacing your furnace and air conditioner together? Call us today for expert guidance and affordable installation options.
FAQs
Can Replacing Both The Ac And Furnace At The Same Time Save Money?
Yes, combining the replacement often reduces labor costs and can save 10-30% compared to replacing each system separately.
Are There Financing Options Available For Replacing Hvac Systems?
Many HVAC companies offer financing plans with low or no interest. Additionally, rebates and incentives may be available for energy-efficient systems.
How Long Does A New Ac And Furnace Typically Last?
Most systems last between 10 to 15 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
Is It Better To Repair An Old Ac Or Furnace Or Replace It?
If your system is older than 10-15 years or requires frequent repairs, replacement is often more cost-effective in the long run.
