It’s shortly after the New Year holiday, and the temperatures in Southern California are as low as they’ll be all year. It’s been raining all day, and you finally pull into the driveway to enjoy a relaxing and warm evening, cuddled up on the couch in front of your favorite TV show. Or so you thought.
Instead, you open the front door to a cool front, and wonder, “Did I accidentally turn on the A/C instead of the heat this morning?”. With a quick glance at the thermostat, you realize…something is terribly wrong, and your evening (or week!) is about to unfold quite differently than you expected.
Your next thought may be…how long does it take to install a furnace, or more importantly, how much is a new furnace installed? As the cost and installation time are the top concerns for most homeowners when a central system like HVAC breaks down. Luckily, we have those answers right here in our comprehensive guide.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Furnace in Riverside, CA?
Let’s not waste any time and answer the question you’re here for: how long does it take to install a furnace, specifically in the Riverside, CA area? In general, the job typically takes anywhere from four to ten hours, once the initial inspection has been performed and the quote or job has been approved.
Factors that impact installation time
Like any big job, there are a few factors that’ll affect the installation type. Those include:
- Type of furnace: Depending on the type of furnace you’re replacing, i.e., gas, electric or high-efficiency models, the installation time will vary.
- Additional work: Some layouts, or older homes, may require extra work to install the furnace, including additional ductwork or venting upgrades that may be required.
- Accessibility: If the area isn’t easily accessible, such as smaller or tighter spaces like an attic, garage, or crawl space, this could also add additional installation time for furnaces.
In the Riverside area, Moreno Valley, Corona, and Redlands furnace installers have the feat of tackling more challenging work areas, thanks to older and non-traditional homes. This means the average time of four to ten hours could be lengthened to accommodate older ductwork or unique layout considerations.
Furnace Installation Cost Breakdown
Now, if you’re fortunate enough only to be familiar with furnace repair costs, the cost to install furnaces might come as a shock. Next, let’s break down all the factors that contribute to a furnace installation and cost in the area, so you have a better understanding of what to expect.
In general, for a furnace replacement Riverside, California homeowners can expect to spend anywhere between $5,000-$7,500 for an average or standard installation. Of course, for more substantial jobs, prices can reach up to $11,000 or more, meaning it’s best to have your unique setup reviewed by an expert to find out what it might entail.
So, what exactly goes into the price of a furnace installation cost?
- Unit costs: The cost of the actual furnace unit is the first part of the price, and will vary depending on whether you select a standard unit or a high-efficiency unit. While standard units are more affordable upfront, high-efficiency furnaces can save significantly on utility bills over time, although they often add $1,000 to $2,500 to the installation price.
- Labor costs: Next, the furnace installer must consider their own labor costs for installing the chosen unit. In the Riverside and SoCal area, hourly labor tends to be higher than the national average, due to both demand and regional wage rates. This means labor alone can account for several thousand dollars of the overall project.
- Permit and inspection fees: If you’re wondering, “Do I need a permit to install a Furnace in Riverside, CA?”, the answer is absolutely! These permits ensure that the work meets local safety and building codes, and can range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000, depending on the project’s scope.
- Optional upgrades: From smart thermostats to additional air purification features, just like a car, there are various optional upgrades you can select that’ll affect the final cost to install furnaces.
Factors That Affect the Cost to Install a Furnace
Beyond the pricing of the unit and labor, other factors will influence the cost of installing a furnace in Riverside, CA, and surrounding areas.
- Size of the home
- BTU requirements.
- Energy efficiency rating (AFUE).
- Brand of unit
- Warranty options.
- Ductwork repair or replacement costs.
To offset furnace installation and costs, however, be sure to ask your contractor about local energy efficiency rebates such as those offered by SoCal Gas, Riverside Public Utilities, or other local municipalities.
Furnace Installation Process Step-by-Step
The next question that naturally arises for those facing a cold, uncomfortable home in need of a new furnace installation is…what’s the process or timeline for doing so? To help, we’re breaking down the furnace installation process step by step.
First things first, out with the old, to be in with the new. The kick-off to any furnace installation is the removal of the old unit. This includes disconnecting and removing the existing furnace, which will also require shutting off the gas or electrical connections. Along with the unit being removed from the housing, the venting will be removed, and any ductwork repairs will be made.
The removal of the furnace and any necessary HVAC repairs often takes the majority of the time, but once complete, it’s time to install the new furnace unit. Once complete, the testing of the system, calibration, and safety checks are necessary to ensure the furnace was installed properly and is working correctly.
Lastly, for furnace replacement Riverside California homeowners will also be responsible for pulling permits and having the work inspected, once complete, which any reputable contractor will handle for you. Need a fast, professional furnace installation in Riverside? Call us today for a quote.
DIY vs Professional Furnace Installation in Riverside
Considering the cost to install furnaces versus the need for repairs, you may wonder…Can I install the unit myself? DIY repairs or replacements for furnace installations are generally not recommended due to the complexities and safety measures required for installing gas lines, as well as the code compliance surrounding the job.
Hiring a licensed HVAC contractor in Riverside or the greater Inland Empire ensures that your furnace is installed in accordance with local building codes and manufacturer specifications. Furthermore, professionals have the training to properly size the system, connect gas and electrical lines safely, and make necessary adjustments to ductwork.
DIY fixes pose a greater threat when units are installed incorrectly, which can cause issues such as reduced efficiency and higher utility bills, as well as more serious risks like gas leaks, poor ventilation, or carbon monoxide exposure. Even small mistakes, such as improper venting or loose connections, can significantly reduce the lifespan of the system and create hazardous conditions.
Choosing the Right Furnace Installer in Riverside, CA
If you’re experiencing issues with your furnace, like loud sounds, intermittent issues, or have general concerns, it’s imperative to find a reputable Inland Empire, Moreno Valley, Corona, or Redlands furnace installer that services the Riverside, CA area. So, with a nearly endless amount of numbers to call…what can you look for to ensure the contractor you choose is right for the job?
Number one, local expertise matters especially when it comes to pulling the correct permits and understanding unique weather considerations and patterns. Secondly, you’ll want to ensure the contractor you choose has all the proper licensing, extensive experience, and reviews from real homeowners, like you.
In Riverside, CA, homeowners trust Magnolia Heating and Cooling for all their HVAC repairs. Magnolia has been in business since 1951, serving the Southern California region with exemplary service for furnace installations, upgrades, and repairs. To perform an inspection or request an inspection, contact Magnolia’s helpful team now.
Service Areas We Cover
Magnolia HVAC is the leading choice for furnace replacement Riverside California-wide, and for those seeking Moreno Valley, Corona, and Redlands furnace installers in the surrounding Inland Empire areas.
