For those looking to upgrade or replace an existing furnace, price and potential cost savings are major selling points. Your home’s design and existing system need to be considered when designing your new heating system.

Let’s look at the most popular heating system and their potential costs:

• Furnaces. By heating the air and then forcing it through ducts,forced air systems provide a constant flow of heat. Remember, though, when figuring the cost of a forced air furnace you need to also include the cost of the duct system if none exist. A mid-efficiency unit installed with existing ductwork ranges from $2,500-$4,200. High-efficiency units installed with existing duck work ranges from $3,500-$5,500.
• Boilers. Used to heat water and steam which is then circulated through a series of pipes to heat a home, boilers generate heat that can be felt through various flooring materials. Along with the boiler, your home needs to be fitted with radiant floor piping system for maximum efficiency. The price of boiler systems start at around $3,800, which might sound expensive but keep in mind boiler systems can last for more than 20 years and are very energy efficient which results in lower energy costs. High-effieciency boilers range from $5,800-$8,800.

With the cost of a heating system starting at $2,500, you should do some research on which system fits your budget, expectations and return on investment. Remember, as with any major home improvement, weigh the up-front costs against potential cost savings and added resale value. When your ready to design your new system, contact your local HVAC contractor. They’ll have the expertise and pricing comparisons you’ll need to make an educated decision.