Centennial, CO Heating System Replacement Costs — HVAC Guide

Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes

A new heater is a big decision, and furnace replacement cost can feel confusing. Prices vary widely, but they should never be a mystery. In this guide, we’ll break down what you really pay for, why some quotes are higher, and how to avoid surprise add‑ons. If you are comparing bids in Denver or the Front Range, you will know exactly what to ask and how to save, including current coupons below.

What Actually Drives the Cost of a Furnace Replacement

Furnace replacement cost is more than the box in your basement. It is the sum of equipment, labor, materials, code upgrades, and the quality of design and installation. The right sizing and setup affect comfort, noise, and efficiency for years.

Key cost drivers include:

1. System size and load • Proper sizing based on Manual J calculations, not rules of thumb.
2. Efficiency level • Standard vs high‑efficiency (80% AFUE vs 90–98% AFUE) impacts equipment price and venting.
3. Single‑stage vs two‑stage vs modulating • Higher staging adds cost but improves comfort and fuel savings.
4. Venting and condensate • High‑efficiency models need PVC venting and condensate drainage.
5. Electrical, gas, and safety upgrades • New shutoff valves, gas sediment traps, whips, and smoke/CO detector compliance.
6. Ductwork condition • Sealing, resizing, or repairs can be essential for airflow and noise control.
7. Thermostat and controls • Smart thermostats add convenience and may unlock rebates.
8. Access and install complexity • Tight spaces, crawlspaces, or attic installs take more time and materials.

Bottom line: a clean, code‑compliant install with proper airflow often costs more upfront but saves money and headaches over the life of the unit.

Typical Price Ranges in the Denver Area

Every home is unique, but honest ranges help you plan. In our market:

• Equipment only • Standard gas furnace: commonly in the low to mid thousands depending on size and brand. • High‑efficiency models: higher due to secondary heat exchangers and controls.
• Professional installation • Includes removal, setup, venting, gas and electrical connections, startup, and commissioning.
• Project totals • Many Denver replacements land in the mid to high thousands when you include permits, code updates, and a quality thermostat. Bundles with A/C or heat pumps cost more but may unlock larger rebates and deeper discounts.

We caution against suspiciously low bids that skip permits, reuse unsafe venting, or skip a load calculation. The least expensive day‑one price can be the most expensive over the next 10 winters.

The “Hidden” and Non‑Negotiable Costs (So You Do Not Get Surprised)

A professional quote should itemize these so you see the true scope:

1. Permit and inspection • The City and County of Denver requires a permit and inspection for furnace replacements. This protects safety and future resale.
2. High‑altitude setup • Along the Front Range, elevations often exceed 5,000 feet. Gas furnaces require high‑altitude derating and proper combustion tuning for safe, efficient operation.
3. Venting and combustion air • High‑efficiency units use PVC vents and need correct termination. Mid‑efficiency units must meet metal vent codes.
4. Gas and electrical upgrades • Shutoff valve within reach, drip leg, bonding, and correctly sized circuit.
5. Condensate management • High‑efficiency systems need proper drainage with traps and neutralizers when required.
6. Ductwork repairs • Leaky or undersized ducts reduce comfort and raise bills. Sealing and balancing are smart investments.
7. Carbon monoxide protection • CO detectors on the correct floors are a safety must.

If a line item is missing on a bid, ask why. Clear scope means no surprises.

Repair or Replace: A Simple Framework

Use this quick lens when deciding:

• Age and reliability • Furnaces often last 15–20 years with maintenance. Frequent winter breakdowns signal rising risk.
• 50% rule • If a repair is over 50% of the price of a new, efficient unit, replacement is usually the better value.
• Efficiency and fuel use • AFUE tells you how much fuel becomes heat. A 95% AFUE furnace converts 95% of fuel to heat. Replacing a 60% AFUE unit can cut fuel use by roughly 37%.
• Comfort and noise • Two‑stage and variable systems run longer on low speed for steadier heat, lower noise, and better filtration.
• Safety • Cracked heat exchangers and chronic CO issues require immediate attention.

A transparent contractor will show both options with math, not pressure.

How to Choose the Right Contractor in Denver

Price matters, but the installer matters more. Look for:

1. Licensing and BBB record • Ask for license numbers and check BBB accreditation and rating. Brothers holds BBB A+ accreditation.
2. In‑house technicians • Company‑employed and certified techs ensure accountability. We do not use random subcontractors.
3. Permit pulled in the company name • Protects your home and warranty.
4. Load calculation and airflow testing • Manual J sizing and static pressure checks prevent short cycling and noise.
5. Written scope with code items • Lists venting, gas, electrical, and condensate details.
6. Local altitude experience • Correct derating, combustion tuning, and PVC vent routing for Front Range winters.
7. Real reviews • Look for recent heating installs and emergency response feedback.

Financing, Rebates, and Membership Savings

Furnace replacements are often unplanned. You should not have to delay heat because of budget. We offer flexible financing on approved credit and seasonal promotions. Utility rebates may be available for high‑efficiency equipment and smart thermostats. Savings vary by model and utility program.

Our Home Care Club includes annual inspections for your furnace, A/C, plumbing, and electrical at no extra charge, plus reduced repair costs for members. Annual tune‑ups prolong equipment life, improve efficiency, and catch issues early before a no‑heat emergency.

What to Expect on Installation Day

A well‑run project follows a clear playbook:

1. Arrival and protection • Crews confirm scope, protect floors, and isolate the work area.
2. Removal and pre‑checks • Safely decommission old equipment and check gas, venting, and electrical.
3. Set and connect new furnace • Level, secure, and connect venting, gas, condensate, and electrical.
4. Thermostat and controls • Install or integrate and confirm staging or modulation settings.
5. Commissioning and safety tests • Combustion, CO testing, and static pressure readings. Document results.
6. Clean up and walkthrough • Review warranties, maintenance, and homeowner tips.

Most single‑system swaps finish the same day. Complex duct or vent changes may take longer, but you will know the timeline upfront.

How to Read Quotes and Avoid Overpaying

Ask each bidder for the same items so you can compare apples to apples:

• Exact model numbers and AFUE
• Staging type: single, two‑stage, or variable
• Load calculation results and ductwork notes
• Permit and inspection included
• Venting, gas, electrical, and condensate scope
• Thermostat type and brand
• Labor warranty and equipment warranty length
• Maintenance plan options and first‑year service
• Total price, financing terms, and promotional discounts

Tip: If a quote does not include commissioning data or safety testing, budget for callbacks. A correct setup is worth more than a cheap box swap.

The Value of Maintenance and Warranty

Your furnace is only as good as the care it receives:

• Annual tune‑ups • Cleaning, safety checks, and adjustments keep efficiency high and extend life.
• Filter discipline • Replace on schedule for airflow and indoor air quality.
• Duct sealing and balancing • Improve comfort room to room and reduce operating costs.
• Warranty registration • Register equipment promptly. Keep records of tune‑ups to protect coverage.

Our 24/7 team provides emergency service and transparent pricing. With licensed, in‑house technicians and award‑winning service, we keep Denver homes safe and warm when it matters most.

Special Offers on Furnace Replacement

• Special Offer: Save $250 on a New Furnace Installation. Use code $250 OFF New Furnace Installation before 2025-11-05.
• Special Offer: Save $50 on Work Performed for Denver Furnace Replacement. Use code $50 Off Work Performed on Denver Furnace Replacement before 2025-11-05.
• Bundle and Save: Get $1,500 OFF an AC and Furnace Bundle. Use code $1,500 OFF AC and Furnace Bundle before 2025-11-05.

Call (720) 994-7055 or schedule at https://www.brothersplumbing.com/ to claim your savings at installation.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"Use Brothers for a no hassle, no worry, professional installation. Old heater went out on a Friday, Brothers installed a new heater over the weekend. The install was clean and professional, and they answered all my questions." –Denver Homeowner

"Chris M. at Brothers came to fix our furnace. He identified the issue and root cause, communicated each step, and explained how the furnace worked. Positive experience and we will be contacting Brothers for future HVAC issues." –Aurora Homeowner

"We've had Brothers install both a furnace and a heat pump. Crew was professional and the equipment has been top notch. You can probably find cheaper HVAC service, but certainly not better." –Westminster Homeowner

"Brothers got a tech to my home within 2 hours on the coldest day of February when my furnace quit. Problem solved quickly and respectfully. They will stay my choice." –Boulder Homeowner

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a furnace replacement cost in Denver?

Most projects land in the mid to high thousands, depending on size, efficiency, venting, ductwork, and code upgrades. Bundles with A/C or heat pumps cost more but can unlock additional rebates and discounts. Always compare itemized, permit‑included quotes.

Do I need a permit to replace my furnace?

Yes. The City and County of Denver requires a permit and inspection for furnace replacements. Pulling a permit protects safety, keeps your home compliant with code, and helps with future resale and insurance.

Are high‑efficiency furnaces worth it?

Often, yes. A 95% AFUE furnace converts 95% of fuel into heat and uses advanced venting. Savings depend on your current AFUE, gas rates, and usage. Two‑stage or variable systems also improve comfort and noise levels.

How long does installation take?

Most single‑system replacements finish in one day, including removal, install, and commissioning. Complex venting changes, duct modifications, or attic/crawlspace locations can add time. Your project manager should confirm the schedule before work starts.

What size furnace do I need?

Size must be calculated with a Manual J load. Square footage alone is not enough. Insulation, windows, orientation, and air leakage all matter. Proper sizing prevents short cycling, reduces fuel use, and delivers steadier comfort.

Conclusion

The real furnace replacement cost comes from design, code compliance, and quality installation, not just the equipment. In the Denver area, demand honest, itemized quotes, permits, and high‑altitude expertise. Ready to compare bids on furnace replacement cost in Denver? We will show you the math, options, and savings clearly.

Ready to Get a Guaranteed, Itemized Quote?

• Call now: (720) 994-7055
• Schedule online: https://www.brothersplumbing.com/
• Current savings: $250 OFF New Furnace Installation or $1,500 OFF an AC + Furnace Bundle through 2025-11-05.

Get same‑day estimates, financing options, and licensed, in‑house technicians. Stay warm tonight with a furnace install done right.

Brothers Plumbing, Heating, and Electric is Denver’s one‑call home service team for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. We use licensed, in‑house technicians, provide transparent pricing, and stand behind our work. Recognized by the Denver Post Top Workplace and Colorado Titan 100 (2024), and backed by BBB A+ accreditation, we deliver 24/7 emergency response, high‑efficiency options, and financing. From furnaces and heat pumps to IAQ upgrades, we serve homes and businesses across the Front Range.