Average Cost
- Total Cost Range: $8,000–$20,000
- Average Cost: $12,000
| Furnace Type | Cost Range | |-------------------|-------------------------| | Standard | $6,000–$12,000 | | Gasification | $7,000–$20,000 |
Factors Affecting Cost
1. Size (BTUs Needed)
| Home Size | BTUs Needed | Cost | |---------------------|-----------------|---------------------| | < 1,000 sq. ft. | 18,000 | > $4,000 | | 1,000 sq. ft. | 18,000–21,000 | $3,000–$6,000 | | 1,500 sq. ft. | 24,000–30,000 | $4,000–$7,000 | | 2,000 sq. ft. | 30,000–34,000 | $5,000–$8,000 | | 2,500 sq. ft. | 34,000–39,000 | $6,000–$9,000 |
2. Brand
| Brand | Unit Cost | |---------------------|-----------------------| | Central Boiler | $8,000–$16,000 | | Crown Royal | $7,000–$11,200 | | Econoburn | $7,000–$12,000 | | Hawken Energy | $6,000–$11,200 | | HeatMaster | $5,000–$17,000 | | Heatmor | $6,600–$14,000 | | Hyprotherm | $6,700–$7,400 | | Woodmaster | $8,000–$14,600 |
3. Labor Costs
- Range: $1,500–$4,500
- Hourly Rate: $75–$200/hour
- Tasks Include: Installation, connecting piping, adding flue pipes, and ensuring proper drainage.
Additional Costs to Consider
1. Old Unit Removal
- Cost: $60–$500
2. Operational Costs
- Wood Costs: $450–$3,200/year
- Woodcutting Permit: $20–$40 per cord of wood
- Woodcutting Equipment: $500–$1,000 for chainsaws, safety gear, and hauling vehicles
3. Maintenance
- Annual Inspection: $80–$100
- Cleaning Frequency:
- Standard Furnace: Every 2–4 weeks
- Gasification Furnace: Once a month
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
| Option | Cost | |----------------------|-----------------------| | DIY Installation | $4,000–$12,000 (unit) + $300–$1,000 (tools) | | Hiring a Pro | Add $1,500–$4,500 for professional labor |
Common Add-Ons
| Add-On | Cost Range | |-----------------------------|----------------------| | Air Duct Cleaning | $275–$500 | | New Radiators | $100–$2,500 | | Thermostat Installation | $120–$275 | | Radiant Floor Heating | $1,700–$6,000 | | Furnace Cleaning | $60–$400 |
Tips to Save Money
- Explore Tax Incentives:
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ENERGY STAR® offers up to a 30% federal tax credit (up to $2,000) for qualifying wood furnaces.
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Choose Gasification Models:
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Higher upfront cost, but uses 50% less wood annually.
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Maintain Regularly:
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Weekly cleanings and annual inspections extend the furnace's lifespan.
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Get Multiple Quotes:
- Compare prices from at least three installers to find the best value.
An outdoor wood furnace can keep your home cozy and reduce long-term heating costs, especially when properly maintained and paired with tax incentives.
