Furnace
A fuel-burning or electric forced-air heater that warms air in a heat exchanger and distributes it through ductwork.
Quick answer
Furnace: A fuel-burning or electric forced-air heater that warms air in a heat exchanger and distributes it through ductwork. Typical cost: $3,500–$8,000 installed for a gas furnace; $1,500–$4,000 for electric resistance..
Why it matters
Furnaces still dominate cold-climate heating, but new federal efficiency rules (95% AFUE minimum on gas in many regions) mean replacement costs and venting changes catch homeowners off guard.
Typical cost
$3,500–$8,000 installed for a gas furnace; $1,500–$4,000 for electric resistance.
Pros
- • Strong heat output in cold weather
- • Fast warm-up
- • Long lifespan (15–25 years)
- • Lower upfront cost than heat pump
Cons
- • Heating only — needs separate AC
- • Uses fossil fuel
- • Requires venting and combustion-air planning
- • No federal efficiency credit
Common uses
- • Cold-climate whole-home heating
- • Hybrid systems with electric AC or heat pump
Alternatives
Heat pumpDual-fuel hybridBoiler with radiators
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Frequently asked questions
- How long does a furnace last?
- Gas furnaces last 15–25 years with annual maintenance; electric resistance furnaces last 20–30.
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