HVAC installation costs in Colorado Springs (2015, condo, house)

[gamixon]

Wanted to see if anyone has replaced their central air and furnace package recently. I've researched 2 sites on the web for 2015 pricing and found price ranges between $4500 to $5000 for Lennox/Carrier systems (2.5 ton 14 SEER with 80% 2 stage variable for 1600-2000 square foot home). Anyway, we've got 3 bids so far ranging from $8000 to $9000. Appreciate any input!

[beezle1]

I replaced the furnace in a 1300 square foot condo last year and it was over $4000. I sure hope my house furnace lasts long enough that I don't need to replace it for a while!

[gamixon]

Thanks for the info "beezle1"!

[Lightning_Hunter]

Originally Posted by gamixon

Wanted to see if anyone has replaced their central air and furnace package recently. I've researched 2 sites on the web for 2015 pricing and found price ranges between $4500 to $5000 for Lennox/Carrier systems (2.5 ton 14 SEER with 80% 2 stage variable for 1600-2000 square foot home). Anyway, we've got 3 bids so far ranging from $8000 to $9000. Appreciate any input!

Hi Gamixon,

I'm assuming that you want to replace an old AC and Furnace split-system. In such a system, the AC condenser is outside and the furnace is inside, although they work together. A "packaged" unit is a furnace and AC together in one system, usually found on the rooftop (you used the word package, but I assume you don't have this particular setup). Most residential properties do not have packaged units. If you are replacing a split-system, the average cost for an AC and Furnace is between $6,500 and $11,000, depending on the efficiency and product. The price you got from the internet sounds like an AC or Furnace by itself, or a packaged unit, rather than both an AC condenser and gas furnace. Beezle1 mentioned replacing a furnace by itself, which would not include the AC.

I work for a local HVAC company in town that has been around for 15 years. We could likely beat the price of those other 3 bids you received (assuming it is a standard install), but we would have to take a look at the system first. I will send you a private message if you are interested.

[gamixon]

Yes it's a split system and quotes appear to be on the high side based on my limited research. Of course, I'm only as smart as what I dig up on the internet. Anyway, thanks for the information and we're not looking for any additional quotes - just want to see what people are actually paying.

[Lightning_Hunter]

Originally Posted by gamixon

Yes it's a split system and quotes appear to be on the high side based on my limited research. Of course, I'm only as smart as what I dig up on the internet. Anyway, thanks for the information and we're not looking for any additional quotes - just want to see what people are actually paying.

Well, the prices you found on the internet are most definitely not for an AC and Furnace in a split system. $8,000 - $9,000 is not unreasonable. For example, here is a quick search on google for the national average price for a furnace:
2015 New Furnace Installation Cost | Furnace Replacement & Prices

And here is the national average cost of an A/C:
Central Air Conditioner Costs | Cost to Install New AC Unit

If you take the average cost of both systems, it comes out to be between $6,000 and $12,679. I'm not sure where you got $4,500 - $5,000 number, unless you are only factoring in the equipment cost by itself. There is also labor, permits, taxes, and of course the company has overhead to pay (office rent, utility bills, employees, etc.). Just make sure the company you choose has good installers. I see so many bad installs in this line of work, and a majority of all complaints you read on the internet about furnaces and Air Conditioners are related to the install, rather than the equipment:
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/c...ying-guide.htm

[gamixon]

Originally Posted by Lightning_Hunter

Well, the prices you found on the internet are most definitely not for an AC and Furnace in a split system. $8,000 - $9,000 is not unreasonable. For example, here is a quick search on google for the national average price for a furnace:
2015 New Furnace Installation Cost | Furnace Replacement & Prices

And here is the national average cost of an A/C:
Central Air Conditioner Costs | Cost to Install New AC Unit

If you take the average cost of both systems, it comes out to be between $6,000 and $12,679. I'm not sure where you got $4,500 - $5,000 number, unless you are only factoring in the equipment cost by itself. There is also labor, permits, taxes, and of course the company has overhead to pay (office rent, utility bills, employees, etc.). Just make sure the company you choose has good installers. I see so many bad installs in this line of work, and a majority of all complaints you read on the internet about furnaces and Air Conditioners are related to the install, rather than the equipment:
Best Central Air Conditioning Buying Guide

Thanks!