One of the first questions every homeowner asks is simply: what will this cost? Honest pricing is hard to find online because every home is different, so this guide gives realistic Metro Vancouver ranges for the most common projects and explains what moves the number up or down. These are general market ranges, not a quote — for your home we always provide a clear, itemised price after seeing the system.
Why HVAC prices vary so much
Two homes on the same street can get very different quotes for the same equipment. The biggest factors are the size and efficiency of the unit, the condition of your existing ducts and wiring, how easy the equipment is to reach, and whether old equipment has to be removed. Permits, electrical upgrades and venting changes also add to the total. That is why a trustworthy estimate always starts with a look at your actual home rather than a number over the phone.
Furnace replacement cost
A new high-efficiency gas furnace in Metro Vancouver typically runs in the range of $4,000 to $8,000 installed, depending on the size of your home, the efficiency rating you choose, and any venting or gas-line work. Larger homes and high-modulation furnaces sit at the upper end. See our detailed furnace replacement cost guide for what changes the price, and our furnace services page for what we do.
Heat pump cost
Heat pumps cover the widest range because they both heat and cool. A single-zone ductless mini-split commonly falls around $4,000 to $8,000, while a whole-home ducted system can run from roughly $8,000 to $18,000 before rebates. The good news is that heat pumps qualify for the largest rebates, which can bring the net cost down significantly. Our heat pump cost guide breaks it down, and we install and service them through heat pump services.
Air conditioning cost
For cooling alone, a central air conditioner is usually $4,500 to $9,000 installed, while ductless cooling is priced per zone. Many Vancouver homeowners now choose a heat pump instead of a dedicated AC because it cools in summer and heats efficiently in the shoulder seasons for a similar install. Compare options in our AC installation cost guide and on our air conditioning page.
Thermostat cost
A smart thermostat unit is usually $150 to $350, plus installation, with a small add-on if your system needs a common wire. Full details and brand options are on our thermostat services page.
Rebates can change the math
Before you commit to a budget, look at rebates. CleanBC, BC Hydro and FortisBC have all offered incentives that can take thousands of dollars off a qualifying heat pump, plus smaller rebates on efficient furnaces and smart thermostats. Programs and amounts change, so see our BC HVAC rebates overview for the current landscape and how to qualify.
Frequently asked questions
Can you give me a price over the phone?
We can share the general ranges you see here, but an accurate price needs a quick look at your home, ductwork and electrical. We provide a clear, itemised written estimate before any work begins, with no obligation.
Is a heat pump really cheaper than a furnace plus AC?
Often, yes. A heat pump replaces both heating and cooling in one system, and it qualifies for the largest rebates in BC, so the net cost after incentives can be very competitive. We help you compare the real numbers for your home.
Do your prices include removal of the old equipment?
Our written estimates spell out exactly what is included, which normally covers removal and disposal of the old unit, the new equipment, installation, and any required permits. You will see every line before you decide.
Talk to a Metro Vancouver HVAC expert
Straight answers and a free, no-pressure estimate for your home.
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