What You’re Paying For
Based on 56,000 homeowner projects tracked through 2025 and 2026, the national average for a full HVAC replacement runs between $11,590 and $14,100. For a 2,000 to 2,500 square foot home, most homeowners land around $13,430.
Breaking down roughly like this:
- Equipment: 60% of the total
- Labor: 30%
- Permits and inspections: 10%
New ductwork adds another $2,100 to $4,000 on top of that.
System Type Changes Everything
|
System Type |
Installed Cost Range |
|
Central AC + Gas Furnace |
$10,000 to $14,000 |
|
Heat Pump (Air Source) |
$4,200 to $8,000 |
|
$5,000 to $12,000 |
|
|
Geothermal Heat Pump |
$15,000 to $30,000+ |
Key Takeaway: In western Montana’s unpredictable climate, a standalone heat pump usually underperforms. A gas furnace paired with a Carrier, Trane, or Mitsubishi system tends to be the more durable call.
What Missoula Homeowners Need to Know
Homes in the areas like Linda Vista, the South Hills, Miller Creek, the Rattlesnake, University District, etc often require higher BTU ratings because of Montana’s sustained cold load.
Companies like Garden City and Temp Right do actually do this work, however, what they are not always equipped for is same day scheduling, direct pricing over the phone, and caliber of technicians Right Now has.
Right Now Plumbing and Heating runs a different model. Upfront pricing, 2 hour arrival windows with text updates, & 24/7 availability.
Key Takeaway: The cheapest quote is not always the best choice.
Ways to Bring the Number Down
- Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act cover up to 30% of qualifying heat pump and high-efficiency equipment costs
- ENERGY STAR rated systems often qualify for manufacturer rebates
- Scheduling installs in shoulder seasons (spring or fall) typically avoids peak labor surcharges
- Bundling your install with a service agreement can lock in better long term pricing
Ready to Get a Real Price?
Call Right Now Plumbing and Heating at (406) 214-8904
FAQ
How much does a new HVAC system cost in Missoula, Montana?
Most (not all) Missoula homeowners pay between $10,000 and $15,000 for a complete install, depending on system type, home size, and whether ductwork needs replacing.
Is a heat pump a good choice for Montana winters?
Standard air-source heat pumps lose efficiency below 20°F. A cold climate heat pump or a gas furnace paired with a high-SEER AC unit is a more reliable fit.
How long does an HVAC installation take?
Most residential installs run one to two days. Complex jobs with new ductwork or multi-zone configurations can take two to three days.
What HVAC brands hold up best in Montana’s climate?
Carrier, Trane, Mitsubishi, and Daikin all perform well in extreme cold when properly sized and installed by a licensed technician.
Does Right Now Plumbing and Heating offer financing?
Yes. Call (406) 214-8904 to ask about current financing optionss.
Should I replace my furnace and AC at the same time?
Most HVAC professionals recommend replacing both together if the existing furnace is over 15 years old.
What size HVAC system do I need for a 2,000 square foot home in Missoula?
Expect to need a furnace in the 60,000 to 80,000 BTU range and an AC unit between 2.5 and 4 tons.
How can I tell if my HVAC system needs replacing versus repairing?
If the system is over 15 years old and repair costs exceed $5,000, replacement is the stronger financial move.
Written by the owner of Right Now Plumbing and Heating in Missoula.
Sources:
Modernize HVAC Cost Calculator, 2026 (56,000 homeowner projects).
HomeAdvisor HVAC Cost Data, 2025.
Today’s Homeowner HVAC Installation Guide, 2025.
U.S. Department of Energy Inflation Reduction Act Tax Credit Guidelines.
Right Now Plumbing and Heating Google Reviews, verified via rightnowplumbingmt.com.