How many people does it take to install a furnace?

Author: Adolfo Grady  |  Last update: Tuesday, November 11, 2025

How many people does it take to install a furnace? It often takes two skilled professionals to install a furnace. This allows the work to be done efficiently because one person handles the installation of the furnace itself while the other focuses on connections, such as gas lines and electrical wiring.

How many people to install a furnace?

Generally, two people will ensure that the job is done correctly, safely, and quickly. This allows them to collaborate and double-check their work before it goes live. If you are not confident about your skills, hiring experienced technicians familiar with the type of furnace you install is always a good idea.

What is the labor cost to install a furnace?

Labor: Typical labor costs can range from $50 - $100 per hour for a licensed technician. Each additional team member will be an additional charge. Depending upon the complexity of the job, a new furnace installation can take 10-15 hours!

Can one person install a furnace?

Some DIY Work Can Be Illegal

In California, installing a furnace or other major HVAC component requires pulling a building permit, which is issued by the city or county.

How many hours does it take to install a furnace?

4-8 hours. Furnace installation in a residential home usually takes 4-8 hours, depending on the complexity of the job. Additional time may need to be added to account for ductwork, electrical, or gas line modifications to properly match the new equipment.

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Can a furnace be installed in one day?

Most furnace installations can be completed in one day. If you're getting a new type of furnace or adding ventilation and ductwork, this may add a few days to the installation timeline.

Why does it take so long to install a furnace?

Installation Timeline

Furnace installation can take anywhere from four to eight hours. It really all comes down to how complex your unique job is. For example, if we have to replace the ductwork, electrical lines, or make modifications to your gas lines, those things can take longer.

Can a handyman install a furnace?

When technicians pass the licensing exam, they are deemed fully knowledgeable in the HVAC field. Handymen won't have an HVAC license, which means they may not even possess adequate training to successfully work on your heating or cooling system.

Why does it cost so much to install a furnace?

Installation Entails More than Just the Furnace

Holes are often drilled for pipes and wires. The technician must also transport the furnace and move it to the proper location, which can be difficult depending on the space available and if the unit is placed downstairs.

Who installs a new furnace?

Your HVAC contractor will start the process by assess your home's heating needs based on size, insulation, and layout. The furnace installer will then recommend the appropriate furnace type (gas, electric, oil) and size based on the home evaluation.

How much is HVAC labor per hour?

Several factors influence how much you'll pay for labor for your next HVAC repair or replacement service. However, the average cost of HVAC labor is $75 to $150 per hour.

Does homeowners insurance cover furnaces?

Your base homeowners policy will cover many types of damage to your furnace. An extra endorsement known as Equipment Breakdown Coverage (EBC) will give you additional coverage for certain types of mechanical or electrical failure.

Do HVAC technicians work alone?

As an HVAC system maintenance technician, you will typically work alone, have the freedom to work at your own pace, and move between multiple jobs in a single day. It will be up to you to troubleshoot system issues and determine the correct course of action for repairs.

How often should a furnace be replaced?

The typical lifespan of a furnace can be anywhere from 15 to 30 years. If you've had your furnace for less than 15 years, you likely don't have to worry about replacing it any time soon. But if it's older than 15 years and you've started noticing problems, it may be on its last leg.

What should I expect to pay for a new furnace?

You should expect to spend between $3,800 and $12,00 on a new furnace, including both the unit and installation costs. Factors influencing the price include the type of furnace (gas, electric, or oil), the unit's efficiency rating, and the complexity of the installation.

Will HVAC prices go down in 2024?

Several HVAC manufacturers have officially declared upcoming price hikes for 2024, garnering attention as a new wave of increases takes effect. There is a noticeable industry-wide trend of manufacturers elevating the prices of equipment, parts, and supplies.

How long do furnaces last?

The Average Furnace Lifespan

A well-maintained furnace can last at least 15 to 20 years, but completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend its life even longer.

What is a furnace installer called?

Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers—often called HVAC technicians—typically do the following: Install, maintain, and repair HVACR systems.

Can a handyman install a kitchen sink?

Handyman plumbers are great for smaller, non-invasive fixes of toilets, showerheads, sinks, and other smaller plumbing fixtures around the house. Also, know that any fix that doesn't require digging into your walls or flooring falls within the wheelhouse of a handyman plumber.

Is it hard to replace a furnace by yourself?

Everything from your old furnace will need to be unhooked properly and closed off safely. There's a lot of things that are hooked up to your furnace, the vents, the power source, the drain. The furnace system is intricate and needs to be handled by someone who knows how all these parts work.

How long does it take a professional to install a furnace?

On average, it takes about four to 10 hours to wrap up a furnace install, depending on the type and size of the unit. As expected, a larger, more complex model will take more time and effort than a standard unit. A brand-new furnace is an important investment for any homeowner.

Can a furnace be replaced in one day?

Yes! Usually a furnace can be installed in one day. However, we just need to make sure that the existing ductwork in your home is in good shape (doesn't require a repair or a replacement). Another factor is the size of the unit that we're installing.

How often do furnaces fail?

The average gas furnace lifespan is 15 to 20 years. They can last longer, and they can fail earlier, depending on the quality of the unit to begin with, proper installation, and how well they've been maintained.

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