How does the installation cost of a warm-air heating system compare to that of a hot-water or steam-heating system?

A warm-air heating system typically has a lower installation cost compared to hot-water or steam heating systems. This is primarily because warm-air systems require less complex components and installation procedures.

Warm-air systems utilize ducts to distribute heated air throughout a building, and these ducts can often be more easily integrated into existing structures, especially in homes that might not have been originally designed for central heating. The system itself, which can include a furnace and fan, is also generally less expensive as it requires fewer materials and labor to install.

In contrast, hot-water and steam systems involve boilers, piping, radiators, or baseboard heaters, all of which can require significant labor and materials for installation. This complexity contributes to higher overall costs.

Therefore, the correct answer reflects the typical cost difference in the installation of these heating systems, emphasizing the efficiency and simplicity of warm-air heating installations compared to the more intricate hot-water and steam systems.