If your furnace is struggling to heat your home efficiently, or worse, not working at all, you’re likely wondering, how much does it cost to replace a furnace? Whether you’re dealing with an old furnace that’s breaking down often or looking to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model, understanding furnace replacement costs can help you make a smart, informed decision.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the average furnace replacement cost, factors that affect pricing, the different types of furnaces available, and how much you might pay for installation in Jerseyville, IL. Plus, we’ll share money-saving tips, maintenance advice, and explain how Womack Heating and Cooling can help make the process seamless.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, switching to a high-efficiency furnace (95%+ AFUE) can reduce your heating bills by 15–30%.
Average Furnace Replacement Cost in Jerseyville, IL (2025)
On average, furnace replacement costs range between $3,500 and $7,500, depending on the size of your home, type of furnace, and installation complexity. High-efficiency systems or large-capacity units can cost over $9,000.
Here’s a quick cost comparison:
| Furnace Type | Average Replacement Cost | Efficiency (AFUE) | Lifespan |
| Gas Furnace | $3,800 – $6,500 | 80% – 98% | 15 – 20 years |
| Electric Furnace | $2,500 – $4,500 | 95% – 100% | 15 – 20 years |
| Oil Furnace | $4,200 – $7,500 | 80% – 90% | 15 – 25 years |
| High-Efficiency Furnace | $5,000 – $9,000 | 95%+ | 20+ years |
Sources: EnergyStar.gov, Illinois Energy Rebates
Most furnaces have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, with high-efficiency units lasting even longer when properly maintained.
Cost Breakdown by Home Size
| Home Size (sq. ft.) | Furnace Size (BTUs) | Estimated Cost Range |
| 1,000 – 1,500 | 40,000 – 60,000 | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| 1,500 – 2,500 | 60,000 – 80,000 | $5,000 – $6,800 |
| 2,500 – 4,000 | 80,000 – 100,000+ | $6,800 – $9,000+ |
Key Factors That Affect Furnace Replacement Cost
1. Type of Furnace You Choose
Your furnace type (gas, electric, or oil) significantly impacts the upfront cost and long-term utility bills. Natural gas furnaces are common and efficient, while oil furnaces are typically more expensive to operate and install.
2. Size of the Furnace for Your Home
The right furnace size depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, and heating demands. A furnace that’s too small won’t heat your home adequately, while an oversized one will cycle inefficiently and wear out sooner.
3. Installation Complexity
If your existing furnace is located in a tight or hard-to-reach space, or your home requires new ductwork or venting, labor and materials will increase the total cost.
4. Size of the Furnace for Your Home
The right furnace size depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, and heating demands. A furnace that’s too small won’t heat your home adequately, while an oversized one will cycle inefficiently and wear out sooner.
5. Installation Complexity
If your existing furnace is located in a tight or hard-to-reach space, or your home requires new ductwork or venting, labor and materials will increase the total cost.
6. Furnace Efficiency Ratings (AFUE)
Higher-efficiency systems reduce energy use but have a higher upfront cost. However, high-efficiency furnaces often pay off in 5–7 years through lower heating bills.
7. Permits and Local Code Compliance
In Jerseyville, homeowners should expect to pay $250–$600 for permits, depending on the furnace installation requirements and municipal regulations.
8. Furnace Brand and Features
Premium brands like Trane, Lennox, and Carrier typically cost more, but they offer longer warranties and more advanced features.
How to Choose the Right Furnace for Your Home
Choosing the right furnace involves several factors:
- Fuel source: Natural gas is most cost-effective; electric furnaces have lower upfront costs but higher energy bills; oil furnaces are less common and more expensive.
- Efficiency rating: Look for an AFUE of 90% or more for long-term energy savings.
- Load calculation: A licensed installer will calculate the correct BTUs based on square footage, windows, insulation, and airflow.
- Brand reputation: Opt for brands that offer a balance of performance, warranty, and serviceability.
Additional or Hidden Costs to Be Aware Of
Beyond just the unit and labor, replacing your furnace may come with additional costs, such as:
- Smart thermostat upgrade: $150–$400
- Disposal of the old furnace: $150–$300
- Electrical or gas line upgrades: $250–$800
- Ductwork repairs or replacement: $1,000–$3,000
- Emergency installation fees (nights/weekends)
These items can increase the overall cost by $500 to $2,000+ depending on your home’s condition and the scope of the project.
How Furnace Replacement Affects Energy Bills
Upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace (95%+ AFUE) can reduce your heating bills by 15–30%. Older systems often lose efficiency over time, costing you more each month. A properly sized and installed system can offer substantial long-term savings.
Furnace Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan
Keeping your furnace in good shape helps you avoid early replacement. Here are a few tips:
- Replace air filters every 1–3 months
- Schedule annual professional inspections
- Keep vents and air returns clean and unblocked
- Seal ductwork and add insulation if needed
- Install a programmable thermostat to reduce runtime
Regular professional maintenance can improve efficiency by up to 15% and extend the furnace’s life.
Real-World Example: Jerseyville Furnace Replacement Project
Scenario: 2,000 sq. ft. home in Jerseyville, IL with an aging gas furnace.
| Component | Cost Estimate |
| High-efficiency gas furnace | $6,200 |
| Smart thermostat installation | $300 |
| Permit and labor | $800 |
| Ductwork sealing & adjustments | $700 |
| Total Project Cost | $8,000 |
For a smaller home or if the existing furnace and ducts are in good shape, the total may be closer to $5,000–$6,000.
How to Save on Furnace Replacement Costs
1. Schedule Replacement in the Off-Season
Spring and fall offer better availability and lower labor costs for installing a new furnace.
2. Take Advantage of Rebates & Tax Credits
Federal programs offer up to $600–$2,000 in credits for installing high-efficiency furnaces. Illinois utilities often provide rebates for natural gas units.
3. Bundle Furnace with AC or Heat Pump Installations
Replacing your heating and cooling systems together may qualify you for combo discounts and ensure matched equipment efficiency.
4. Get Local Estimates
Working with local pros like Womack Heating and Cooling ensures transparent pricing, no surprise fees, and local rebate expertise.
Repair vs. Replace: What’s the Right Call?
| Condition | Repair | Replace |
| Furnace under 10 years old | ✅ | |
| Repair cost under $500 | ✅ | |
| Furnace older than 15 years | ✅ | |
| Frequent repairs or breakdowns | ✅ | |
| Inefficient heating / rising energy bills | ✅ |
Tip: If repairs cost more than 50% of a new furnace, it’s usually smarter to replace.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Furnace
- Furnace is 15+ years old
- Heating is uneven or inconsistent
- You notice rising energy bills
- Unusual noises or smells during operation
- Furnace constantly cycles on and off
- You’re calling for furnace repair too often
Furnace Warranties: What to Look For
When investing in a new furnace, be sure to consider the warranty terms. A good warranty should include:
- 10-year parts warranty
- 1–2 years on labor
- Optional extended warranty coverage
- Transferable warranty (adds resale value)
Why Choose Womack Heating and Cooling in Jerseyville, IL?
At Womack Heating and Cooling, we know that replacing a furnace is a significant investment. That’s why we deliver personalized service and honest guidance every step of the way.
- Free in-home estimates and load calculations
- Professional, licensed furnace installers
- Expert service for gas, electric, and oil furnace installations
- Help choosing the right furnace size and type
- Flexible financing options
- Local knowledge of rebates and codes
- Warrantied work and 5-star customer support
Call (618) 234-2567 or book your free quote today to get started.
Smart Heating Starts with the Right Furnace
Your furnace is one of the most essential systems in your home, especially during Illinois winters. Whether you’re facing rising repair costs or considering an upgrade to a more efficient furnace, understanding the cost to replace a furnace is the first step to making a smart investment.
When it’s time to replace your furnace, trust the local experts at Womack Heating and Cooling to deliver reliable advice, expert service, and long-lasting comfort.
