Furnaces have a lifetime of around 15 years, though they can last longer if a homeowner has been diligent about annual maintenance. However, you will eventually have to have it replaced. Before the installation day arrives, there are a few things you can do to prepare. In general, your HVAC team will be able to complete the installation process in a day.
Choosing a Furnace replacemnt
Choosing the right furnace replacement is crucial for ensuring comfort and an efficient home. One of the big decisions you’ll face is whether to opt for a high-efficiency model. While these models typically come with a higher initial cost, they offer numerous advantages that can offset the upfront expense. High-efficiency furnaces convert more of the fuel they consume into heating your home, reducing wasted energy and lowering your heating bills. Over time, the savings on energy costs can make up for the higher purchase price. Additionally, many high-efficiency models are eligible for tax credits or rebates, reducing your initial investment.
High-efficiency furnaces use advanced technology to maximize fuel usage. They often feature a secondary heat exchanger that captures and reuses heat that would otherwise be lost through the exhaust. This process not only increases the unit’s efficiency but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, these models are compatible with smart technology, leading to even more energy savings and convenience.
Beyond reducing the amount of energy your home uses, high-efficiency furnaces provide superior heating performance. Manufacturers design them with variable-speed motors to maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home, eliminating cold spots and improving overall comfort. Due to their state-of-the-art components and construction, high-efficiency heating systems also operate more quietly than traditional models and have a longer lifespan. When considering a furnace replacement, weighing a high-efficiency model’s long-term benefits and potential cost savings against its initial expense is essential.
Prior to Installation Day
Before your new furnace arrives, you should take several steps to ensure a smooth replacement process. First and foremost, plan to be present during the installation. Your presence will allow you to answer the technicians’ questions and make any necessary decisions. After they install your furnace, a professional will also give you a walkthrough of its operation and maintenance requirements. You may also need to make arrangements for children and pets. At the very least, you will want to confine your four-legged family members to a space different from where the technicians will be working.
It is also essential to prepare the workspace around your old furnace. Move any household items or obstructions that might impede the installation team. This task includes removing furniture, boxes, or any other items that could be in the way. A clutter-free area facilitates easier access for the technicians and helps ensure the safety of your possessions. Additionally, make sure the path from the entrance the professionals will use to the work area is clear. This will allow for the easy movement of the old unit out and the new unit in. Finally, ensure that adequate parking is available for the installation team.
What to Expect on the Day of the Installation
When installation day arrives, it’s time to bid farewell to your old furnace and welcome the new one. The process begins with your technicians conducting several crucial safety checks. They will inspect the area for potential hazards and shut off your gas and electricity to ensure a safe working environment.
Next, the technicians will disconnect the fuel line, wiring, and ductwork attached to the old furnace. Then, it will be removed and hauled away from your home. Before installing the new one, the technician will clean the connection points to the ductwork and the floor where the old furnace was situated.
After placing the new furnace in its designated spot, the technicians will level it. They will then reconnect the gas lines, wiring, ducts, and other necessary components. Once everything is connected, they will perform a series of tests to verify that the furnace is operating correctly and adjust it for optimal performance.
Contact the Professionals
At Totally Cool Heating & Air, we have been serving the residents of Austin, TX for over 35 years. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. Additionally, we provide indoor air quality, ductwork, and attic insulation services. Contact us today to schedule a furnace replacement with our experienced team members.
