Furnace Size

Simply put, the larger the furnace the more expensive it is. ​ If a furnace is undersized, it may cost less to install, but it will be unable to maintain your home's temperature during the harsh winter months. ​ If a furnace is oversized it will be noisier, use more power, require frequent repairs, and leave the home with hot and cold spots. ​ Sizing the furnace correctly is an important and complex procedure best left to the professionals.

Feature Set

There are a variety of features that factor into your installation cost:

• Multiple Stages
• Efficiency
• Variable Speed Motor
• Communicating Controller
• Add Ons

Pricing

Now that you are in the market to replace your furnace system you are likely curious about the cost. ​ In the Fraser Valley, the price for a complete replacement of a furnace system is approximately $4,499, but prices range between $3,499 to over $8,999. ​ Why the large range? There are a number of considerations that contribute to the total cost of your complete furnace installation.

Furnace Brand

While the internal components of each furnace brand are often built by the same one or two manufacturers the sticker on the front will affect the price. Major brands like Lennox, Carrier and Rheem will typically cost more than similar equipment under the Armstrong, Payne or Ameristar brands. That said, there are several benefits to paying for a major brand. ​

• Companies like Rheem offer specialized training to Authorized Dealers to ensure you get the best installation of their product.

Installation Requirements

Chimney: New furnaces require special, gas rated, plastic chimneys. The location of your furnace within the home dictates the cost of installation. For example, a furnace located against an exterior wall may not require much additional work; however, a furnace situated in the middle of your home may require a labour intensive install affecting the overall cost. Drainage: Furnaces produce condensation that must be safely discarded. In some homes there is no useable drain near the furnace and additional components such as pumps will need to be used. Duct Work: Most replacements require very little modification to the duct work. Some homes, specifically older homes (1970s and older), may require significant duct work alterations due to duct size, location or condition. Wiring: With the upgrade to a higher tier furnace, the home may require a more capable thermostat. Communicating thermostats require 4 wires while non-communicating thermostats may require up to 12 wires for full functionality. By comparison most homes in Chilliwack built before 1999 have 2-4 wires. The requirement of adding additional wiring will affect the price of installation.

Installing Contractor

Unlike other household appliances a furnace cannot simply be plugged in. A furnace must be integrated into your home and should be completed by a qualified professional backed by a reputable company. Employing a company with high standards will influence the value of your installation both short term and long term. ​ You can expect to pay more for a company that: ​

• is insured, licensed and bonded