96% vs 98% AFUE Furnace: Worth the Upgrade in Minnesota?
A 98% AFUE furnace saves only about 2% more gas than a 96% model. Our condensing furnaces run $6,500–$9,500 installed. See what the extra buys.
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Furnace Replacement in Oakdale, MN
Furnace replacement in Oakdale costs $4,500–$9,500 installed, quoted in writing at a flat rate after a Manual J. In townhome closets, the decision often comes down to how a new furnace can vent through a wall or roof the association controls.
Furnace replacements in Oakdale homes
Oakdale furnace replacements split between townhome closets and split-entry basements. In a closet, the new furnace has to fit the same footprint with required clearances, and going from 80% to 96% means routing PVC intake and exhaust through an exterior wall or roof that the association controls, with terminations it will approve. Some closets can't take that run cleanly, and an 80% replacement into the existing flue is the practical answer; we price both when both fit.
Split-entries have more room but often share a chimney with the water heater, and that flue may need relining once the furnace moves to PVC. Many of these homes are on their second furnace, installed in the 1990s and often oversized for a house that has since gained insulation and windows, so a Manual J usually changes the size. Gas comes from Xcel Energy. A mechanical permit from the city is normally required for the swap, and your written quote lists any permit the job needs.
Updated November 10, 2026
What affects the price of a new furnace in Oakdale?
By efficiency: 80% AFUE roughly $4,500–$6,000; 96–98% AFUE roughly $6,500–$9,500. See the furnace replacement cost guide.
Furnace replacement in Oakdale: questions
Does our Oakdale townhome association have to approve a new furnace vent?
Often, yes, if it goes through an exterior wall or roof, since those are usually common elements. Ask the manager what the rules say about new wall penetrations, termination location and paint color. The vent kit specs and a sketch of where the pipes exit give the association what it needs to review. If a new penetration isn't allowed, an 80% furnace venting into the existing flue may be the way to go.
Can a furnace upgrade even out the levels in our Oakdale split-entry?
Partly. A two-stage or modulating furnace paired with a variable-speed blower spends most of the winter at low fire, and those longer cycles narrow the gap between the lower level and the upstairs. The rest is air distribution: supply and return balance, and where the thermostat sits. We look at both during the quote, since a new furnace is the right moment to add a lower-level return or fix dampers.
More in Oakdale
Signs your furnace needs replacing
- Furnace repair in Oakdale
- AC repair in Oakdale
- AC replacement in Oakdale
- Heat pumps in Oakdale
- Mini-splits in Oakdale
- Tune-ups in Oakdale
- All HVAC service in Oakdale
Furnace replacement near Oakdale
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Brands we install and service
Guides on furnace replacement
Carrier Furnace Error Codes: What the Blinking Light Means
Carrier furnace error codes from the maker's own troubleshooting guides: how to count the flashes safely, what each code means, and when to call a tech.
Read the guideWhat Does the Blinking Light on My Furnace Mean?
A blinking furnace light is a control board fault code. How to read it safely, what common codes mean, and when to call 612-429-3465 instead of resetting.
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