A gas furnace is a popular choice for heating homes. Installing a gas furnace can provide a reliable and efficient source of heat. In general, HVAC systems are one of the most significant investments you will make for your home. You will want to take great care in making an informed decision before making such a substantial purchase.
If you have limited knowledge of gas furnaces, you can check out how does a gas furnace work to learn more about them. Otherwise, you should consider these four factors when researching a new gas furnace installation for your new build or prior to replacing an existing unit.
1. Regulations
It’s important to ensure that the gas furnace you are planning to install complies with local building codes. Building codes vary from region to region, but in general, they ensure that new construction and renovation projects meet certain safety and energy efficiency standards.
In addition to building codes, you should also check for any permits that may be required for your gas furnace installation. Failure to adhere to the codes set forth by your municipalities can lead to delays, fines, and other extra expenses that can be quite costly.
The last thing you want is to find yourself with a gas furnace that doesn’t meet the code or a substandard installation that can’t pass inspection or doesn’t perform as intended.
2. Sizing
Proper sizing is crucial for your gas furnace’s efficient and effective operation. A too-small furnace will have to work harder to heat your home, which can lead to increased energy bills and a reduced lifespan.
Then again, an oversized furnace won’t be as efficient, instead cycling on and off more frequently. To determine the correct size for your space, a professional should consider factors such as the size of your home, windows and doors present, insulation levels, and the local climate.
While there are load calculators available to help you do this without expert assistance, it is not recommended. Even hiring an HVAC technician for a consult is better than winging it without the proper tools or a thorough knowledge of the equipment to be installed.
3. Ventilation
Proper ventilation is also essential for a safe and efficient gas furnace installation. A gas furnace needs a steady supply of fresh air to work properly, and it also needs to vent any waste gases safely outside. This is typically done through the use of a flue pipe or chimney, which must be properly sized and installed to ensure safe operation.
If you don’t already have these components in place from a previous install, you will want to make sure you accommodate their addition when adding a new gas furnace to your home.
4. Installation
The HVAC team doing the installation should be experienced and well-trained in handling gas furnace installation. Inadequately trained installers can make mistakes that can put your safety at risk and invalidate any warranty.
Look for an installer who is licensed and certified by the relevant local or national regulatory bodies, such as the North American Technician Excellence organization (NATE).
How to Select a Gas Furnace Installer
Of the four items above, number 4 is perhaps the most important. The reason for this is that a qualified, experienced HVAC contractor can take the headache out of determining the answers to the other three items on the list.
An expert technician is well-equipped to help you sort out all of the choices available that suit your needs and get them installed properly. So, one of the most important decisions you can make in deciding what furnace you should install in your home is to equip yourself with the perfect tool—an HVAC expert.
Questions to Ask a Potential HVAC Contractor
Before getting down to the brass tacks of selecting a suitable gas furnace for your home, you will want to choose a qualified installer. Asking the following questions can help determine if the HVAC expert you are considering is a good fit.
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you have experience installing the specific type of furnace I am looking to have installed?
- Can you provide references or reviews from past customers?
- What is the estimated cost of the installation, including any necessary permits or inspections?
- How long will the installation take, and when can you schedule the work to be done?
- Will you handle obtaining any necessary permits or arranging for any required inspections?
- Can you provide a written estimate?
- Are you NATE certified?
- Do you offer maintenance and repair services?
With the right HVAC team on your side, you will be well on your way to a quality gas furnace installation. Next, you will want to ask your experts about the gas furnaces they can provide for you.
Questions to Ask About Your Gas Furnace Installation
Once you are confident that you’ve selected the right team for the job, you can get down to the particulars of your gas furnace installation. Here are some questions to ask.
- What is the process for installation, and how long will it take?
- Will you be obtaining all necessary permits and arranging for any required inspections?
- What type of furnace do you recommend for my home and why?
- How does the furnace you are installing compare in efficiency to my current furnace?
- Will you be disposing of my old furnace, and if so, how will it be done safely and responsibly?
- Will you be sealing and insulating any ductwork during the installation?
- Will you be testing the furnace and ensuring it is properly calibrated before completing the installation?
- Are there any additional features or options that I should consider for my new furnace?
- What is the warranty on the furnace and the installation work?
- How will my new furnace be connected to my existing ductwork and gas line?
- Can you show me the documentation of the furnace’s efficiency rating?
- What is your estimated time of arrival?
Installing a gas furnace can be a great way to heat your home or building, but it’s important to consider local building codes, proper sizing, ventilation, and the experience of the installation team before you begin.
By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your gas furnace is installed safely and efficiently, providing you with reliable and cost-effective heat for many years to come.
