New Furnace Cost In Calgary, AB – 2024 Complete Guide

When delving into the world of furnaces, particularly in the context of Calgary’s chilly winters, the price of a new furnace isn’t just a sticker figure. It’s shaped by several factors, each contributing its thread to the final cost. Let’s unravel these factors to give you a clear picture of what goes into the furnace prices in Calgary. To start there are two ways to look at the pricing 1) Factors influencing furnace unit price cost based on brand and model features and 2) Installation cost based on company and job site condition.

Furnace Equipment Costs

Brand Matters

Just like cars, the brand of a furnace significantly impacts its price. Renowned furnace brands, boasting years of reliability and performance, often carry a premium. But remember, this isn’t just about paying for a name. These brands often offer advanced technology that translates into efficiency and longevity. In essence, paying a higher price for a furnace from a reputed brand can mean fewer headaches and costs down the line. Brands like Carrier & Trane have one to no service calls in the first 10 years due to their exceptional engineering and design. 

Size and Heating Stages

The size of your furnace should be tailored to your home. Oversized units lead to inefficiency and extra annual furnace maintenance and costs, while undersized ones struggle to keep up. Heating stages, single-stage, two-stage, and modulating furnaces also play a pivotal role. Variable and Higher heating stages often mean a higher furnace replacement cost in Calgary, but the investment can pay off in reduced utility and annual maintenance bills. The chart below shows the Carrier Furnace Comparison into three main types:

1. Single-Stage Comfort Series Furnaces: These are a good choice for budget-conscious shoppers. They operate at a single, high setting and turn off once the desired temperature is reached. This means they can be less efficient in maintaining a consistent temperature, as they turn on and off more frequently. However, they are typically more affordable both in initial cost and maintenance.
2. Two-Stage Variable Speed Performance Furnaces: These furnaces offer better savings and performance in the long term compared to single-stage models. They operate at two levels: a lower level for maintaining temperature and a higher level for colder times. The variable speed refers to the blower motor, which can adjust its speed to more precisely control the flow of heated air into your home. This results in more efficient energy use, quieter operation, and more consistent comfort.
3. Modulating Infinity Furnaces: These represent the highest efficiency in the Carrier furnace lineup. Modulating furnaces can adjust their heat output in very small increments, allowing for precise temperature control and greater efficiency. They constantly adjust to maintain the desired temperature without significant fluctuations. While they are the most expensive upfront, they offer the highest energy efficiency, which can lead to lower energy bills over time.

In summary, the choice between these types of furnaces depends on home owner’ individual needs and preferences. If initial cost is a major factor, a single-stage furnace might be the way to go. For better efficiency and comfort control, a two-stage variable speed model is recommended. And for the highest efficiency and precise temperature management, a modulating furnace is the best option.

The Warranty’s Weight

The warranty accompanying your furnace repair is a safety net, one that varies in length and warranty coverage. A more comprehensive warranty might bump up the new furnace cost in Calgary, but it’s a buffer against unexpected expenses. Think of it as an investment in peace of mind because a furnace repair can range from $400-$2,600.

Furnace Installation Costs

The journey from choosing a furnace to enjoying its warmth involves installation – a process that brings its own set of costs and maintenance considerations.

Furnace Company

Larger Companies: These entities often have substantial overhead costs, including project management, fleets, marketing, and software, all contributing to the overall cost of furnace installation. They are large corporations that have completely monetized the furnace and air conditioning industry by offering lower-tier brands like Goodman or Private-label brands at a Premium price brand. Their comfort advisors are often paid by commission ranging from $400-$1000 per furnace and air conditioner install.

Smaller Companies: Smaller furnace companies often strike a balance between innovation in cost management and maintaining service quality that rivals larger companies. For homeowners, it’s beneficial to gather quotes from a variety of companies to make an informed decision. In Calgary, there exists a diverse range of small yet sufficiently established companies that provide excellent post-service support services and have a solid track record of years in the business. This landscape offers homeowners the opportunity to find quality furnace and ac repair services at competitive prices, coupled with efficient service and the reassurance of reliable aftercare.

Solo Companies: Solo Companies, typically consisting of a single technician with one or two trucks, cater to the trade industry and vary in experience, ranging from industry veterans to those venturing into a new business or side hustle. While they are the most affordable option in the market, they often lack the resources to offer extensive labour warranty coverage and may not have standardized installation procedures or formal commissioning reports, leading to inconsistent service quality as reported by some customers. Although these companies are cheaper, the price difference compared to smaller, customer-focused companies is not significantly large.

Therefore, it’s advisable for customers to also seek quotes from both smaller and larger companies, weighing the cost savings against potential risks like lower quality service, control and limited warranty coverage. This approach ensures a more informed decision towards the best furnace installation company, especially where long-term reliability and warranty support from professional services are essential.

Site Conditions and Code Compliance

Adjusting the current job site and system to meet the latest building codes can increase costs by about 20%. This may involve modifying existing supply ducts for newer gas furnace models installed, updating ventilation from atmospheric chimneys to direct venting air ducts, and installing chimney liners if necessary. These changes are essential for efficient operation and to pass the City of Calgary’s gas furnace inspection.

Heat-Loss Calculation 

In Alberta, a mandatory heat-loss calculation influences the furnace installation cost. This process ensures that your new furnace is perfectly sized for your home, a critical factor for efficiency and home comfort. While this adds to the furnace installation in Calgary cost, it’s a crucial step for ensuring your new high efficiency furnace installation is not just a heater box, but a replacement furnace with a tailored solution for home comfort in your specific space.

Add-ons and Extras 

Customization options, repairs or add-ons – like smart thermostats and air conditioning, eco-friendly upgrades to furnace filters, or advanced air filtration systems – can inflate the cost of a furnace. These features, while adding to the initial price of a new furnace in Calgary, enhance efficiency and comfort. It’s a balancing act between upfront costs and future savings.