Infinity 98 Gas Furnace Cost and Buying Guide

The Infinity 98 Gas Furnace Price is a common query among homeowners seeking a high-efficiency heating upgrade. This article explains typical price ranges, installation variables, financing options, and comparisons to help make an informed purchase decision.

Item	Typical Range	Notes
Unit Price	$3,500 – $6,000	Depends on model configuration and dealer pricing
Installation	$1,000 – $4,000	Varies by labor, ductwork, permits, and location
Total Installed Cost	$4,500 – $10,000+	Higher for multi-stage systems or major retrofits
Energy Efficiency	Up To 98% AFUE	Potential fuel savings over lower-efficiency units

What Is The Infinity 98 Gas Furnace?

The Infinity 98 is a high-efficiency condensing gas furnace manufactured by Carrier under its Infinity product line. It is designed for residential use, offering up to 98% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency), variable-speed blower motors, and advanced control compatibility for optimized comfort and efficiency.

Typical Price Of The Unit

Retail pricing for the Infinity 98 gas furnace commonly ranges from $3,500 to $6,000 for the unit alone in the U.S. market. Variations in MSRP arise from model options, accessories such as air cleaners or advanced thermostats, and distributor or dealer markups.

Installed Cost And What Impacts It

Total installed cost usually falls between $4,500 and $10,000+. Several factors influence the final installed price:

• Labor Rates: Local HVAC labor costs vary significantly across states and metropolitan areas.
• Installation Complexity: Replacing like-for-like is less expensive than switching fuel types or relocating equipment.
• Ductwork Condition: Upgrading or sealing ducts increases cost but improves efficiency.
• Additional Components: New thermostats, zoning systems, or whole-home humidifiers add to the price.
• Permits And Inspections: Local code requirements and permit fees contribute to project cost.

Comparing Economical And High-End Scenarios

Examples clarify price variability:

• Economical Replacement: Like-for-like swap in a single-family home with good ductwork—approx. $4,500–$6,000 installed.
• Moderate Upgrade: Adding advanced thermostat and minor duct sealing—approx. $6,000–$8,000 installed.
• Full System Overhaul: New furnace, extensive ductwork, zoning, and premium accessories—$8,000–$12,000+ installed.

Energy Savings And Payback Considerations

The Infinity 98’s high AFUE can substantially reduce natural gas usage compared to older furnaces. Typical savings depend on previous equipment efficiency, gas prices, and household heating load.

Example annual fuel savings estimates:

• Replacing a 70% AFUE unit with 98% AFUE may cut gas consumption by roughly 25–30%.
• Annual dollar savings vary; in colder climates with high runtime, payback may be shorter.

Homeowners should calculate local energy costs and expected runtime to estimate realistic payback periods.

Installation Best Practices

To maximize performance and longevity, ensure installations follow best practices:

• Right-Size The Furnace: Perform Manual J load calculations to avoid oversizing, which reduces efficiency and comfort.
• Ensure Proper Venting: Condensing furnaces require adequate condensate drainage and appropriate venting materials.
• Inspect Ductwork: Seal and insulate ducts, especially in unconditioned spaces, to reduce distribution losses.
• Commissioning: Verify gas pressure, airflow, and thermostat settings after installation.

Maintenance And Operating Costs

Ongoing maintenance preserves efficiency and prevents costly breakdowns. Recommended tasks include annual professional tune-ups, filter changes every 1–3 months, and periodic condensate trap cleaning.

Typical annual maintenance cost ranges from $100 to $300, depending on service plans. Proper maintenance helps maintain near-rated AFUE and reduces the chance of emergency repairs.

Warranty And Reliability

Carrier’s Infinity series typically offers competitive warranties on key components such as heat exchangers and control boards. Warranty length and terms can vary by model and registered owner status.

Homeowners should:

• Register the product after installation to activate extended warranties.
• Obtain warranty documentation from the installing contractor.
• Confirm warranty coverage for parts and labor and any conditions that could void coverage.

Financing, Rebates, And Incentives

Several pathways can reduce up-front costs:

• Manufacturer Financing: Carrier and dealers may offer promotional financing for qualified buyers.
• Utility Rebates: Many utility companies provide rebates for high-efficiency furnace installations—check local programs.
• Federal And State Incentives: Some states or federal programs may offer tax credits or incentives for energy-efficient upgrades; eligibility can change, so verify current listings.

How To Get Accurate Price Quotes

To obtain reliable quotes, follow these steps:

1. Request at least three bids from licensed HVAC contractors.
2. Ensure each quote includes equipment model numbers, labor, permits, and warranty details.
3. Ask for a Manual J load calculation and scope of work in writing.
4. Compare long-term value, not just lowest price—consider warranty, contractor reputation, and included services.

Comparisons To Other High-Efficiency Furnaces

The Infinity 98 competes with other premium furnaces from manufacturers like Trane, Lennox, and Rheem. Key comparison points include:

• AFUE: 98% places the Infinity 98 among top-tier efficiency models.
• Blower Technology: Variable-speed blowers provide better comfort and lower electrical consumption than single-speed units.
• Control Integration: Infinity models often pair with proprietary smart thermostats and zoning solutions.

Price differences among premium brands often reflect dealer networks, bundled accessories, and local demand rather than stark performance gaps.

Common Questions Buyers Ask

Is The Infinity 98 Worth The Extra Cost?

It is often worth the extra cost for homes in colder climates, owners with older low-efficiency furnaces, and those who value quieter operation and better humidity control. The decision depends on projected energy savings and upfront budget.

How Long Does An Infinity 98 Last?

With proper maintenance, a high-quality furnace like the Infinity 98 can last 15–20 years. Heat exchanger integrity, usage patterns, and maintenance history influence lifespan.

Are There Any Installation Pitfalls?

Common pitfalls include improper sizing, inadequate condensate drainage, and failing to upgrade incompatible vents or controls. Use licensed contractors to avoid these issues.

Checklist For Purchasing

• Verify contractor licensing and insurance.
• Request detailed line-item estimates.
• Confirm equipment model numbers and warranty terms.
• Ask for a Manual J heat load calculation.
• Discuss ductwork condition and potential improvements.
• Inquire about available rebates and financing.

Resources And Where To Learn More

Useful resources include manufacturer product pages for model specifications, the Department of Energy’s efficiency guidance, local utility rebate websites, and consumer reviews on independent platforms. Consulting local HVAC contractors for site-specific assessments is essential for accurate pricing.

Key Takeaway: The Infinity 98 Gas Furnace Price varies widely based on equipment options, installation complexity, and geographic location. Accurate quotes, proper sizing, and awareness of rebates are critical to maximizing long-term value.