8 Things to Consider Before You Install a Furnace

A furnace install requires lots of considerations. Relying on guesswork can result in wasting money and having a heating system that doesn’t meet your needs. A furnace is an investment that can improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency for many years. Therefore, you need the help of an experienced heating contractor. But even before you hire furnace installers near you in San Jose, CA, here are eight things to consider:

1. Repair vs. Replace Your Furnace

Repairing a furnace can save you money if the unit isn’t that old, hasn’t been serviced much, and the repair bill is less than half the cost of a new unit. If your furnace has reached the 15- to 20-year mark, consider replacing it. Are you looking for a higher-efficiency model and to save on your heating bills? Then, replacing your furnace can help you achieve your goals.

2. Energy Efficiency Ratings

Since efficiency ranks high in importance, you want to consider the energy-efficiency rating of any new furnace you buy. It is determined by a product’s annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. Today’s mid-efficiency units have an AFUE of 80% or higher, but a high-efficiency furnace can have an AFUE rating of as high as 98.5%. Generally, the higher a unit’s efficiency, the more it costs upfront, but the more you can save on long-term energy costs.

Also, you can save with tax credits and rebate programs for homeowners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades.

3. Size of Furnace You Need

A furnace’s size can refer to its physical dimensions (the unit must fit in the available space). However, it generally refers to the unit’s heating capacity. The required capacity depends on your home’s square footage, but a professional will include other variables in a heat load calculation. 

An undersized furnace won’t provide enough heat and will run longer to compensate. However,  an oversized unit may not run long enough. Either way, energy consumption will be higher and the furnace can wear out faster.

4. The Furnace’s Location

Find the ideal location before a furnace is installed. This is an area with enough airflow and that’s properly insulated. There must also be an electrical outlet nearby to power the furnace and access to a vent leading outside. Consult with a contractor regarding necessary updates, even if you are replacing an existing furnace.

A furnace must also be placed in an area where there are no flammable items. If there are cleaning products, paper, laundry, wood scraps, paint, sawdust, or gasoline in the furnace room, remove these, so your furnace doesn’t become a fire hazard.

5. Condition of Ductwork

Before installing a new furnace, have a contractor evaluate your ductwork. They’ll look at whether your air ducts are properly sealed. If not, energy loss will be a problem, no matter how high the furnace’s AFUE rating is. A professional can seal ducts to minimize energy loss. They can also clean dirt and debris if necessary, which could otherwise reduce a furnace’s performance and efficiency.

6. Insulation

Drafts and heat loss can cause dramatic temperature fluctuations between rooms. An increase in your electric bills is also likely. If your home has insulation issues, a heating contractor can evaluate and upgrade wall, ceiling, and attic insulation. They can also wrap the furnace in insulation to improve its performance and efficiency. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can also help as it can stop air from escaping.

7. Temperature Zoning

If uneven temperatures are common in your home, a zoning system may be the right upgrade. It can help control how heat is distributed. Such an upgrade should be considered during a furnace install to ensure the equipment is compatible. Zoning systems typically require multiple thermostats throughout your home. A technician can help find a programmable or smart model that serves as a centralized hub for the entire system.

Zoning also requires air duct upgrades, including installing dampers. These act as valves to control how much warm air reaches each room.

8. Your Family’s Safety

Installing a furnace has safety implications. Make sure children don’t have access to the area where the unit is being installed. Technicians will be moving heavy equipment and using power tools. Shut off the gas line and circuit breaker for your furnace. If you can, do so before the contractor arrives so this step isn’t accidentally forgotten.

Hire Experienced Furnace Installers Near You

High-quality installation is the first step to having a safe, reliable, long-lasting furnace. At Trio Heating & Air, our licensed heating professionals have the training, tools, and equipment to complete a furnace install that ensures reliable heating and high efficiency. They also provide heating maintenance and repairs. To learn more about our heating, air conditioning, insulation, and air quality services, call (415) 223-5615 today.

A furnace install requires many considerations. Learn what to know for optimal performance and efficiency. Call Trio Heating & Air today.