When it comes to heating your home, homeowners often weigh the benefits of electric versus gas furnaces. Electric furnaces offer clean, efficient heating and are ideal for homes without access to a gas line or those seeking lower upfront installation costs. Understanding electric furnace costs, installation pricing, and long-term operating expenses is crucial before making a decision.
In 2026, electric furnace costs vary widely depending on the unit, installation complexity, and home size. On average, homeowners can expect a unit cost ranging from $338 to $3,500, while electric furnace installation cost typically falls between $2,500 and $7,500. High-end installations with ductwork repairs and upgrades can reach $9,500 or more.
How Much Does a New Electric Furnace Cost?
Electric furnaces are an affordable and efficient heating option for many households. The cost of an electric furnace depends on the brand, furnace size, and the complexity of installation. In 2026, homeowners can expect the following estimates:
Average Electric Furnace Costs in 2026
Cost Component | Cost Range | Notes |
Electric Furnace Price | $338–$621 | Cost for the unit only, varies by brand and efficiency |
Installation Cost | $767–$3,523 | Includes labor, materials, and standard installation |
Furnace Replacement Cost | Up to $3,523+ | Includes removal of old furnace and ductwork repairs |
Keep in mind that replacing a furnace often requires removing the old unit and repairing or updating ductwork, which can increase the electric furnace replacement cost.
Cost Per Home Size
The cost of an electric furnace installation also depends on the size of your home. Below are typical estimates for both the unit and full installation:
Home Size | Furnace Unit Only | Unit + Professional Installation |
1,200 sq ft | $400–$600 | $1,600–$3,000 |
1,500 sq ft | $500–$700 | $2,000–$3,200 |
2,000 sq ft | $600–$850 | $2,400–$3,800 |
2,500 sq ft | $700–$1,000 | $3,000–$4,500 |
These totals give homeowners a clearer picture of the electric furnace cost installed for the whole home, not just per square foot.
Labor Costs
Hiring a licensed HVAC contractor is essential for safe and efficient installation. Labor costs for electric furnace installation typically include:
Task | Average Cost |
Hourly Labor | $129–$237 per hour |
Removing Old Furnace | $183–$336 |
Ductwork Installation or Repair | $5.95–$10.93 per linear foot |
Labor rates vary depending on the complexity of the job and your region, so always get multiple quotes for comparison.
Electric Furnace Tiers and What You Get
A. Entry-Level Electric Furnaces
- Installed Cost: $3,140–$4,300
- Single-stage heating, best for small homes and mild climates
- Simple controls, low upfront cost
Scenario: Jessica and Logan installed an entry-level unit in their 1,500 sq ft home to save on new electric furnace cost while maintaining efficient heating.
B. Mid-Range Electric Furnaces
- Installed Cost: $3,600–$5,400
- Two-stage heating, quieter, improved comfort
- Ideal for families seeking balanced efficiency
Scenario: Jen and Andy upgraded to a mid-range unit for their 2,000 sq ft home, enjoying a more consistent temperature and lower noise during operation.
C. High-End Electric Furnaces
- Installed Cost: $4,000–$6,000+
- Variable-speed blower, whisper-quiet operation, premium efficiency
- Best for larger homes or long-term ownership
Scenario: Susan and Sarah invested in a high-end system for their 2,500 sq ft home, ensuring long-term energy savings and optimal comfort.
Additional Cost Factors Homeowners Should Expect
Upgrades and repairs can add $500–$3,000 to the overall cost of an electric furnace installation:
- Ductwork repair or replacement
- Electrical panel or wiring updates
- Ventilation adjustments
- Advanced filtration systems or humidifiers
These extras are often necessary for older homes or larger systems.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Electric Furnace?
The electric furnace cost to run averages about $2,628 annually, compared to $1,800 for a gas furnace. Electric systems are more expensive due to utility rates and energy usage, particularly in colder climates.
Ways to lower operating costs:
- Installing a smart thermostat
- Improving home insulation
- Pairing with solar panels
- Using a hybrid system with a heat pump
Electric Furnace vs. Gas Furnace vs. Heat Pump
When choosing a heating system for your home, it’s important to understand the differences in cost, efficiency, and suitability for your climate.
Here’s a detailed comparison of electric furnaces, gas furnaces, and heat pumps:
System | Upfront Cost | Annual Operating Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Electric | $1,600–$4,500 installed | $2,600+ | Homes without gas, mild climates, low upfront budget |
Gas | $3,000–$7,000 installed | $1,800 | Cold regions, cheaper monthly bills |
Heat Pump | $4,000–$8,000 installed | $1,000–$1,500 |
What Size Electric Furnace Do You Need?
Choosing the right size electric furnace is crucial for both comfort and energy efficiency. An undersized furnace may struggle to heat your home, while an oversized unit can lead to short cycling, higher energy bills, and unnecessary wear on the system.
Proper sizing is critical for efficiency:
- 1,500 sq ft home: 2–2.5 ton
- 2,000 sq ft home: 3–3.5 ton
A professional load calculation (Manual J) ensures the electric furnace for a 1500 sq ft home is neither oversized nor undersized.
Best Electric Furnace Brands
Top brands and their cost expectations:
- Trane
- Lennox
- Carrier
- Goodman
- Amana
- Rheem
- York
- Coleman
Consider longevity, warranties, and energy efficiency when evaluating brand options.
Frequently Asked QuestionsÂ
How much does it cost to install a new electric furnace?
The cost to install a new electric furnace varies depending on the brand, size, and complexity of the installation. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $1,600 and $4,500 for the furnace itself, with installation costs ranging from $767 to $3,523, bringing the total project cost to roughly $2,500 to $7,500. Factors like ductwork modifications, home size, and labor rates can influence the final price.
How much does a furnace cost in 2026?
In 2026, the price of a new furnace depends on the type. Electric furnaces are generally the most affordable upfront, costing between $1,600 and $4,500 installed. Gas furnaces typically cost more, ranging from $3,000 to $7,000 installed, while heat pumps, which provide both heating and cooling, are usually $4,000 to $8,000 installed. Choosing the right system depends on your climate, energy preferences, and budget.
What size electric furnace do you need for a 2,000 sq ft house?
A 2,000 sq ft home generally requires an electric furnace rated at 3 to 3.5 tons. However, the exact size should be determined using a professional load calculation (Manual J), which considers factors such as insulation, ceiling height, window type, and local climate to ensure your furnace is neither oversized nor undersized.
What is the $5,000 rule for HVAC?
The $5,000 rule is a simple guideline homeowners often use when budgeting for a new HVAC system. It suggests that most standard heating and cooling installations, including the furnace and air conditioning system, will cost around $5,000 on average. While not exact, this rule helps homeowners plan financially, though actual costs can vary depending on system type, home size, and installation complexity.
