Troy Furnace Replacement: What It Actually Costs in 2026
You call three HVAC contractors in Troy for furnace replacement quotes. The first says "$4,000, give or take." The second says "anywhere from $3,500 to $8,000, depends on what you want." The third won't give you a number over the phone at all.
This is why homeowners hate getting furnace quotes.
After 35 years installing furnaces across Southeast Michigan, we know exactly what drives the cost of a furnace replacement in Troy — and we're going to lay it out in detail. Not vague ranges. Not "it depends" without explaining what it depends on. Real numbers based on thousands of installations in homes just like yours.
Whether you're in a 1960s ranch in Troy with the original ductwork or a newer two-story in Rochester Hills, this guide will show you what you'll actually pay, what affects that price, and how to avoid overpaying for equipment you don't need.
What Drives Furnace Replacement Costs in Troy
Furnace replacement costs aren't arbitrary. Five factors determine what you'll pay, and understanding them helps you evaluate quotes intelligently.
Equipment Type and Efficiency Rating
The furnace itself is the biggest cost variable. An 80% AFUE single-stage furnace costs significantly less than a 96% AFUE modulating unit — but the efficiency difference affects your monthly gas bills for the next 15-20 years.
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) measures how much of the fuel your furnace burns actually heats your home. An 80% AFUE furnace wastes 20 cents of every dollar you spend on natural gas. A 96% AFUE furnace wastes only 4 cents. In Michigan winters, that adds up.
Single-stage furnaces run at full blast whenever they're on — like a light switch, either 100% or off. Two-stage furnaces have a low setting for mild days and a high setting for cold snaps. Modulating furnaces adjust output in 1% increments, running at exactly the capacity needed to maintain temperature.
The more sophisticated the furnace, the higher the equipment cost — but also the better the comfort and efficiency.
Home Size and Heating Load Calculation
Your furnace needs to match your home's heating load — the amount of heat required to keep your house comfortable on the coldest day of the year. This isn't determined by square footage alone.
A proper Manual J load calculation accounts for:
- Square footage and ceiling height
- Insulation levels in walls, attic, and basement
- Window size, type, and orientation
- Air leakage and home construction quality
- Local climate (Troy's winter design temperature is around -4°F)
A 1,500-square-foot ranch with poor insulation might need a bigger furnace than a 2,000-square-foot two-story with modern windows and insulation. Contractors who size furnaces based on square footage alone are guessing — and often oversizing, which costs you money upfront and in wasted energy.
Existing Ductwork Condition
If your ductwork is properly sized, sealed, and insulated, furnace replacement is straightforward. If it's not, you have decisions to make.
Common ductwork issues in Troy-area homes:
- Undersized ducts: Many 1960s-1980s homes have ductwork sized for lower-efficiency furnaces. Modern high-efficiency furnaces move more air and may require duct modifications.
- Leaky seams: Duct leakage wastes 20-30% of heated air in many homes. Sealing ducts during furnace replacement improves efficiency immediately.
- Poor insulation: Ducts running through unconditioned attics or crawl spaces lose heat before it reaches your rooms.
- Restrictive returns: Inadequate return air pathways force the furnace to work harder and reduce efficiency.
A furnace replacement quote should include a ductwork inspection. Minor sealing and insulation might add $300-$800. Major duct modifications can add $1,500-$3,500 depending on scope.
Installation Complexity
Not all furnace replacements take the same amount of labor. Location matters.
Basement installations in Troy are typically straightforward — good access, existing venting, and room to work. Attic installations take longer and require more safety equipment. Furnaces in tight crawl spaces or closets add labor time.
Venting also affects cost. If you're upgrading from an 80% AFUE furnace to a 96% AFUE model, you'll need PVC venting instead of metal flue pipes. This requires running new vent pipes — sometimes through walls or the roof — and adds $400-$1,200 to the job depending on configuration.
If you're switching fuel types (oil to gas, propane to natural gas), you'll need gas line work, which requires a licensed plumber and adds $800-$2,000.
Permit and Inspection Fees in Oakland County
Troy is in Oakland County, and furnace replacement requires a mechanical permit. Permit fees typically run $75-$150 depending on equipment value.
A licensed contractor pulls the permit and schedules the inspection. The inspector verifies proper installation, venting, combustion air supply, and code compliance. This protects you — unpermitted work can cause insurance and resale issues.
Contractors who offer to skip the permit to "save you money" are cutting corners. When you work with a reliable HVAC contractor in Metro Detroit, permits and inspections are included in the quote — no surprises.
Real Furnace Replacement Pricing for Troy Homes
Here's what furnace replacement actually costs in Troy in 2026, broken down by furnace type. These prices include equipment, labor, standard venting, permits, and basic ductwork connection. They assume a straightforward basement installation with existing ductwork in good condition.
| Furnace Type | AFUE Rating | Typical Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Stage, 80% AFUE | 80% | $3,200 - $4,800 | Budget-conscious, mild climate (not ideal for Michigan) |
| Two-Stage, 90-92% AFUE | 90-92% | $4,500 - $6,500 | Good balance of cost and efficiency for Michigan |
| Two-Stage, 95-96% AFUE | 95-96% | $5,500 - $7,800 | High efficiency, lower gas bills, better comfort |
| Modulating, 96-98% AFUE | 96-98% | $6,000 - $9,500 | Maximum efficiency and comfort, ideal for Michigan winters |
These are installed prices for quality equipment from manufacturers we trust: Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Rheem, Bryant, and Goodman. Lower-tier brands might save you $500-$1,000 upfront but often have shorter lifespans and less robust warranties.
What's Included in a Complete Furnace Replacement Quote
A professional quote for furnace installation and repair should include:
- Furnace equipment with manufacturer warranty (typically 10 years parts, limited lifetime heat exchanger)
- Labor and installation (usually 1-year warranty on workmanship)
- Removal and disposal of old furnace
- Venting materials (metal flue or PVC depending on efficiency)
- Thermostat wire and connection (upgrade to programmable/smart thermostat is optional add-on)
- Condensate drain line and pump if needed (for high-efficiency furnaces)
- Gas line connection and pressure testing
- Electrical connection and safety disconnect
- Permit fees and inspection scheduling
- Startup, testing, and combustion analysis
- Customer walkthrough and operation training
What's NOT typically included (these are add-ons):
- Ductwork modifications beyond basic connection
- Thermostat upgrade (basic replacement is included, smart thermostats are extra)
- Humidifier installation ($400-$800)
- Air purification systems ($800-$2,500)
- Gas line extension or relocation ($500-$2,000)
- Structural modifications (moving walls, cutting joists, etc.)
Hidden Cost Warning: Some contractors quote low to win the job, then add charges for "unforeseen" work during installation. A detailed written quote protects you. If a contractor won't put it in writing, walk away.
Brand Comparison: What You're Actually Paying For
Furnace brands differ in warranty length, build quality, and long-term reliability. Here's what we've learned installing thousands of units across Southeast Michigan:
Carrier: Premium brand with excellent warranties and quiet operation. Higher upfront cost, but parts availability is excellent and they hold up well in Michigan winters. Expect to pay $500-$1,000 more than mid-tier brands.
Lennox: High-efficiency models with advanced features. Good build quality, but parts can be expensive and sometimes harder to source. Similar pricing to Carrier.
Trane: Known for durability and heavy-gauge construction. Slightly louder than Carrier but extremely reliable. Mid-to-high pricing.
Rheem: Solid mid-tier option with good value. Reliable performance and reasonable parts costs. Good choice for budget-conscious homeowners who still want quality.
Bryant: Carrier's sister brand — similar components and reliability at slightly lower cost. Excellent value if you want Carrier-level quality without the premium price.
Goodman: Budget-friendly option with shorter warranties (typically 5-10 years vs. 10+ for premium brands). Works fine but expect a shorter lifespan — 12-15 years vs. 18-20 for premium brands.
The brand matters less than proper sizing, quality installation, and regular maintenance. A correctly installed Goodman will outlast an oversized, poorly installed Carrier every time.
How Michigan Winters Affect Your Furnace Investment
Troy sits in Oakland County, where winter design temperatures hit -4°F and polar vortex events can drive wind chills to -30°F or colder. Your furnace isn't just keeping you comfortable — it's protecting your home from frozen pipes and structural damage.
This matters when choosing a furnace because Michigan winters expose weaknesses that wouldn't show up in milder climates.
Why Undersized Furnaces Fail in Oakland County
An undersized furnace runs constantly on the coldest days, never quite catching up. This causes:
- Comfort problems: Your thermostat says 68°F but it feels like 64°F because the furnace can't maintain temperature.
- Premature wear: Continuous operation without rest cycles burns out blower motors, heat exchangers, and igniters faster.
- Higher bills: Running at 100% capacity uses more gas than a properly sized furnace cycling on and off.
- Safety risks: If the furnace fails during a polar vortex, you're looking at frozen pipes, burst water lines, and thousands in damage.
Proper load calculation prevents this. A furnace sized correctly for Troy's climate will have enough capacity to handle the coldest nights while still cycling efficiently on milder winter days.
BTU Requirements for Different Troy Home Types
BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures heating capacity. One BTU is the energy needed to raise one pound of water by 1°F. Your home's heating load determines how many BTUs your furnace needs to produce.
Typical BTU requirements for Troy-area homes:
- 1,200-1,500 sq ft ranch (1960s-1970s): 60,000-80,000 BTU (older homes have less insulation and leakier windows)
- 1,500-2,000 sq ft ranch (1980s-1990s): 50,000-70,000 BTU
- 2,000-2,500 sq ft two-story (1990s-2000s): 60,000-80,000 BTU
- 2,500-3,500 sq ft two-story (2000s-present): 70,000-100,000 BTU (newer homes are better insulated, so BTU per square foot is lower)
These are approximations. A Manual J load calculation gives you the exact number for your specific home.
Lake-Effect Cold and Humidity Considerations
Troy is far enough from Lake St. Clair that lake-effect snow isn't a major issue, but proximity to the Great Lakes still affects winter humidity and temperature swings.
Michigan winters are dry. Indoor relative humidity often drops to 15-25% without a humidifier, causing:
- Dry skin, bloody noses, and respiratory irritation
- Static electricity that damages electronics
- Hardwood floor shrinkage and gaps
- Increased heating costs (dry air feels colder than humid air at the same temperature)
A whole-home humidifier integrated with your furnace maintains 35-45% relative humidity, improving comfort and reducing heating costs by 2-4%. Installation costs $400-$800 and is worth considering during furnace replacement.
If you're interested in maintaining your system year-round, the $5/month HVAC maintenance plan includes seasonal tune-ups that check humidifier operation along with furnace and AC performance.
Signs Your Troy Home Needs Furnace Replacement
Furnaces don't last forever. In Michigan's climate, with proper maintenance, expect 15-20 years from a quality furnace. Some last longer. Many fail sooner due to poor maintenance or installation issues.
Here's how to tell when repair no longer makes sense and replacement is the smarter move.
Age: The 15-20 Year Rule
If your furnace is 15+ years old and needs a major repair (heat exchanger, blower motor, gas valve), replacement usually makes more financial sense than repair.
Why? Because even if you fix the immediate problem, other components are aging too. You might spend $1,200 on a blower motor this year, then $800 on an igniter next year, then $1,500 on a heat exchanger the year after. You're pouring money into a depreciating asset.
A new furnace gives you:
- 10-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranty
- 20-30% better efficiency (if replacing an 80% AFUE furnace with a 96% model)
- Improved comfort with two-stage or modulating operation
- Peace of mind — no more middle-of-the-night breakdowns
If your furnace is under 10 years old, repair usually makes sense unless the damage is catastrophic (cracked heat exchanger, flooded cabinet, etc.).
Rising Energy Bills Despite Maintenance
If your gas bills are climbing year over year but your usage habits haven't changed, your furnace is losing efficiency.
Common causes:
- Heat exchanger deterioration reducing heat transfer
- Blower motor losing power and moving less air
- Burner fouling reducing combustion efficiency
- Ductwork leaks worsening over time
Compare your current winter gas bills to bills from 3-5 years ago (adjusting for rate changes). If you're using 15-20% more gas for the same temperature settings, replacement pays for itself in energy savings over 5-7 years.
Frequent Repairs Exceeding $500 Annually
One repair every few years is normal. Multiple repairs every year means your furnace is telling you it's done.
Use the 50% rule: If the repair cost exceeds 50% of replacement cost and your furnace is over 10 years old, replace it.
Example: A heat exchanger replacement costs $1,500. A new furnace costs $5,000. That's 30% of replacement cost — but if your furnace is 16 years old, you'll likely face more repairs soon. Replacement makes more sense.
If you're calling for furnace repair in Sterling Heights, MI or Troy multiple times per winter, it's time to have a replacement conversation.
Uneven Heating and Cold Spots
If some rooms are 72°F while others are 64°F, you have a distribution problem. Possible causes:
- Undersized furnace: Can't produce enough heat to reach all rooms
- Ductwork issues: Leaks, blockages, or poor design
- Failing blower motor: Not moving enough air through the system
- Zoning problems: Single-zone system trying to heat a multi-level home
Sometimes this is fixable with ductwork modifications or a variable-speed blower upgrade. Often, it's a sign the furnace was never properly sized or installed. A load calculation and ductwork assessment will tell you which.
Yellow Pilot Light or Cracked Heat Exchanger
This is a safety issue, not just a performance problem.
A healthy furnace flame is blue with a small yellow tip. A predominantly yellow or orange flame indicates incomplete combustion, which produces carbon monoxide.
A cracked heat exchanger allows combustion gases (including carbon monoxide) to mix with the air circulating through your home. This is dangerous and requires immediate shutdown.
Signs of a cracked heat exchanger:
- Soot buildup inside the furnace cabinet
- Visible cracks or holes in the heat exchanger (requires visual inspection)
- Carbon monoxide detector alarming
- Headaches, dizziness, or nausea when the furnace runs
Heat exchanger replacement costs $1,200-$2,500 depending on furnace model. On a furnace over 12 years old, replacement makes more sense — you're buying a new heat exchanger for an old furnace with other aging components.
Safety First: If you suspect a cracked heat exchanger or carbon monoxide leak, shut off your furnace immediately and call for emergency service. Never ignore carbon monoxide detector alarms.
How to Choose the Right Furnace for Your Troy Home
The "best" furnace isn't the most expensive or the highest efficiency. It's the one that matches your home's heating load, your budget, and your comfort priorities.
Proper Load Calculation: Why Square Footage Isn't Enough
A Manual J load calculation is the industry-standard method for sizing HVAC equipment. It accounts for:
- Building envelope (walls, roof, foundation)
- Insulation R-values
- Window area, type, and orientation
- Air infiltration rate
- Occupancy and internal heat gains
- Local climate data (Troy's winter design temperature)
This calculation produces a precise BTU requirement. A properly sized furnace will:
- Run in cycles, not continuously, on cold days
- Maintain even temperatures throughout the house
- Operate efficiently without short-cycling
- Last longer due to proper run times
Contractors who size furnaces by square footage alone are guessing. A 2,000-square-foot home might need a 60,000 BTU furnace or an 80,000 BTU furnace depending on insulation, windows, and construction. The only way to know is to calculate it.
Single-Stage vs Two-Stage vs Modulating: What's the Difference?
Single-Stage Furnaces: One speed — full blast. When the thermostat calls for heat, the furnace fires at 100% capacity until the temperature is satisfied, then shuts off. This causes temperature swings (house gets warm, furnace shuts off, house cools down, furnace fires again). It's the least expensive option but also the least comfortable and least efficient.
Two-Stage Furnaces: Two speeds — low (typically 60-70% capacity) and high (100%). On mild days, the furnace runs on low, providing gentle, consistent heat. On very cold days, it switches to high. This reduces temperature swings, improves efficiency, and runs quieter most of the time. The sweet spot for most Michigan homes.
Modulating Furnaces: Variable capacity from 40% to 100% in 1% increments. The furnace adjusts output continuously to match the exact heating demand. This provides the most consistent temperature, the best efficiency, and the quietest operation. It's also the most expensive upfront — but the comfort difference is noticeable, especially in larger homes or homes with high ceilings.
For Troy's climate, we recommend at least a two-stage furnace. The comfort and efficiency improvements over single-stage are worth the $1,000-$1,500 price difference.
AFUE Ratings: When High Efficiency Pays Off in Michigan
AFUE measures how much of the fuel you burn actually heats your home. The rest goes up the flue.
- 80% AFUE: For every $100 you spend on gas, $20 goes up the chimney. These furnaces use metal flue venting and are less expensive upfront.
- 90-92% AFUE: Only $8-$10 per $100 is wasted. Condensing furnaces that extract more heat from combustion gases.
- 95-98% AFUE: Only $2-$5 per $100 is wasted. Maximum efficiency, requiring PVC venting and condensate drainage.
In Michigan, where you run your furnace 6-7 months per year, high efficiency pays off faster than in milder climates.
Example: A 1,800-square-foot home in Troy uses approximately 800 therms of natural gas per year for heating (based on typical usage). At $1.20/therm (current Michigan average):
- 80% AFUE furnace: Annual cost = $1,200 (800 therms × $1.20 ÷ 0.80 = $1,200)
- 96% AFUE furnace: Annual cost = $1,000 (800 therms × $1.20 ÷ 0.96 = $1,000)
That's $200/year in savings. If the high-efficiency furnace costs $1,500 more upfront, it pays for itself in 7.5 years — and furnaces last 15-20 years.
The math gets even better if gas prices rise or if you qualify for utility rebates (DTE Energy and Consumers Energy both offer rebates for high-efficiency furnaces).
Our detailed analysis in Is a 96% AFUE Furnace Worth It in Michigan? breaks down the payback period for different home sizes and usage patterns.
Variable-Speed Blowers and Comfort
The blower motor moves air through your ductwork. Traditional single-speed blowers run at one speed — loud and forceful. Variable-speed blowers (also called ECM or electronically commutated motors) adjust speed based on heating demand.
Benefits of variable-speed blowers:
- Better air circulation: Runs at low speed continuously, filtering air and eliminating hot/cold spots
- Quieter operation: Low-speed operation is whisper-quiet
- Lower electricity use: ECM motors use 60-80% less electricity than standard blowers
- Improved dehumidification: Slower air movement across the AC coil removes more moisture in summer
Variable-speed blowers are standard on modulating furnaces and optional on many two-stage models. They add $300-$600 to the cost but significantly improve comfort.
Warranty Differences Between Brands
Furnace warranties vary by brand and model. Typical coverage:
- Heat exchanger: Limited lifetime (20+ years) on premium brands, 10-20 years on mid-tier brands
- Parts: 10 years standard on most brands, 5 years on budget models
- Labor: Not covered by manufacturer — some contractors offer 1-2 year labor warranties
Extended warranties are sometimes available for an additional fee. Read the fine print — many require annual professional maintenance to remain valid.
A strong warranty matters less than proper installation and maintenance. We've seen 20-year-old Carrier furnaces still running strong and 8-year-old budget furnaces failing due to poor maintenance. The affordable HVAC maintenance plan ensures your furnace gets the seasonal care it needs to reach its full lifespan.
What to Expect During Installation
A furnace replacement typically takes one full day for a straightforward installation. More complex jobs (ductwork modifications, venting challenges, fuel conversion) can take 1.5-2 days.
Timeline and Process
Pre-Installation (1-2 weeks before):
- Load calculation and equipment sizing
- Written quote with equipment specs and scope of work
- Permit application (contractor handles this)
- Equipment ordering
- Installation scheduling
Installation Day:
- 8:00 AM: Crew arrives, sets up work area, shuts down existing furnace
- 8:30 AM: Disconnect and remove old furnace
- 9:30 AM: Inspect and prepare installation area (clean, level, verify clearances)
- 10:00 AM: Position new furnace, connect ductwork
- 11:00 AM: Run venting (PVC for high-efficiency, metal flue for 80% AFUE)
- 12:00 PM: Connect gas line, test for leaks
- 1:00 PM: Wire electrical connections, thermostat, safety controls
- 2:00 PM: Install condensate drain (high-efficiency furnaces)
- 3:00 PM: Startup, test all safety controls, perform combustion analysis
- 4:00 PM: Final inspection, cleanup, customer walkthrough
You'll be without heat for 6-8 hours during installation. We recommend scheduling in fall (September-October) when outdoor temperatures are mild and you can open windows if needed.
Permit Process in Troy/Oakland County
Your contractor pulls the mechanical permit before installation begins. This costs $75-$150 and is included in your quote.
After installation, the contractor schedules an inspection with Oakland County Building Division. The inspector verifies:
- Proper equipment installation and clearances
- Correct venting size and termination
- Adequate combustion air supply
- Gas line sizing and leak testing
- Electrical connections and grounding
- Carbon monoxide detector presence (required by Michigan code)
The inspection typically happens within 2-3 business days of installation. If everything passes, you receive a signed permit — keep this with your home records for resale purposes.
Ductwork Inspection and Modifications
Before installing the new furnace, a professional contractor inspects your ductwork for:
- Proper sizing for the new equipment
- Leaks at seams and connections
- Insulation condition
- Return air adequacy
- Register placement and airflow balance
Minor issues (sealing a few leaky joints, adding insulation to exposed ducts) are often included in the installation quote. Major modifications (resizing ducts, adding return air pathways, replacing damaged sections) are quoted separately.
If your ductwork hasn't been cleaned in 5+ years and shows visible dust buildup, consider having it cleaned before furnace installation. Our guide on duct cleaning in Macomb County, Michigan explains when it's worth the investment and when it's not.
Thermostat Upgrade Considerations
If you're replacing an old furnace, chances are your thermostat is outdated too. Modern thermostats offer:
- Programmable schedules: Automatic temperature setbacks when you're asleep or away
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Control from your phone, receive maintenance alerts
- Learning algorithms: Thermostats like Nest and Ecobee learn your schedule and adjust automatically
- Multi-stage control: Properly controls two-stage and modulating furnaces (old thermostats can't do this)
A basic programmable thermostat costs $150-$250 installed. A smart thermostat (Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell) costs $300-$450 installed. The energy savings from proper scheduling pay for the upgrade in 2-3 years.
Post-Installation Testing and Walkthrough
After installation, the technician performs:
- Combustion analysis: Measures oxygen, carbon monoxide, and combustion efficiency to verify proper operation
- Temperature rise test: Measures the temperature difference between return air and supply air (should be 40-70°F depending on furnace size)
- Gas pressure test: Verifies correct manifold pressure for proper burner operation
- Airflow measurement: Ensures the blower is moving the correct CFM (cubic feet per minute) of air
- Safety control testing: Tests limit switches, flame sensor, pressure switches, and rollout switches
Then the tech walks you through:
- Thermostat operation and programming
- Filter location and replacement schedule
- Furnace shutdown procedure (emergency shutoff location)
- What sounds are normal vs. what requires a service call
- Warranty registration and maintenance recommendations
You should receive written documentation including:
- Equipment model and serial numbers
- Warranty information
- Maintenance schedule
- Signed permit and inspection certificate
- Combustion analysis report
Keep these documents with your home records. You'll need them for warranty claims, home sales, and future service calls.
Ready to Replace Your Furnace?
NEXT Heating & Cooling has been installing furnaces in Troy and across Southeast Michigan for over 35 years. Our NATE-certified technicians perform proper load calculations, pull permits, and stand behind every installation with a written warranty. No pressure, no upselling — just honest recommendations and quality work.
Schedule Your Free EstimateFrequently Asked Questions About Troy Furnace Replacement
With proper maintenance, a quality furnace in Michigan lasts 15-20 years. Premium brands like Carrier, Trane, and Lennox often reach 18-22 years. Budget brands typically last 12-15 years. Michigan's long heating season (6-7 months) and extreme cold put more stress on furnaces than milder climates, so lifespan is shorter than the national average of 20-25 years.
Annual maintenance significantly extends lifespan. Furnaces that receive professional tune-ups every fall last 30-40% longer than neglected units.
Yes, in most cases. Troy's cold winters mean you'll run your furnace 180-200 days per year. The energy savings from a 96% AFUE furnace vs. an 80% AFUE furnace typically pay back the $1,500-$2,500 price difference in 6-8 years. Since furnaces last 15-20 years, you'll save money over the equipment's lifetime.
The payback is faster if you have a larger home (2,500+ sq ft), keep your thermostat at 70°F or higher, or if natural gas prices rise. DTE Energy and Consumers Energy also offer rebates for high-efficiency furnaces, improving the payback further.
Yes, but it's not ideal. You'll be without heat for 6-8 hours during installation, which is uncomfortable when outdoor temperatures are below freezing. Emergency winter replacements also cost more — contractors charge 10-20% premiums for rush jobs during peak season, and equipment availability can be limited.
If your furnace fails in winter and repair isn't an option, we can usually complete emergency installation within 24-48 hours. But if your furnace is 15+ years old and showing signs of decline, replacing it in fall (September-October) saves money and avoids the stress of a mid-winter breakdown.
Not necessarily, but it's often worth considering. If your AC is 10+ years old, replacing both at once saves money on labor (the crew is already there) and ensures the indoor coil matches both systems properly.
Mismatched systems (new furnace with old AC, or vice versa) can reduce efficiency by 10-15% and void some manufacturer warranties. If your AC is under 7 years old and working well, you can usually keep it. If it's 10+ years old or showing problems, replacing both makes financial sense.
Many contractors offer package pricing for furnace + AC replacement that's $500-$1,000 less than buying them separately.
DTE Energy and Consumers Energy both offer rebates for high-efficiency furnaces:
DTE Energy: $300-$600 for furnaces with 95%+ AFUE, depending on model and features. Additional rebates available for smart thermostats ($50-$100).
Consumers Energy: $300-$500 for 95%+ AFUE furnaces. Rebates increase if you bundle furnace replacement with insulation upgrades or air sealing.
Federal tax credits may also be available under the Inflation Reduction Act — up to 30% of equipment cost (max $600) for high-efficiency furnaces installed in 2024-2032. Your contractor can help you navigate available incentives.
Most ductwork doesn't need full replacement — sealing and insulation improvements are usually sufficient. Signs you might need duct replacement: