A Homeowner’s Guide to a Successful Furnace Installation

It has been a long time coming, but it is finally time for your new furnace installation. This is an unusual purchase, and there is no furnace “shopping mall” to view and select the perfect model. Furnaces are also not a “one-size-fits-all” commodity. Some purchase guidelines can be very helpful at a time like this. Here are some of the basics concerning a new furnace installation.

First, understand that this is a purchase that will last 15 to 20 years. Make sure this is a wise decision.

Furnace Fuel Types

Creating heat energy requires potential energy: in this case, the two most common fuel types in this area are natural gas and electricity.

• Natural gas must be available in your neighborhood for it to be a viable option. If your last furnace system was not a natural gas-powered furnace, your home will need modifications to accommodate an exhaust flue and gas supply lines.
• Electricity is available in every location. If your home is designed for a natural gas furnace, replacing it with an electric-powered furnace will not require significant modifications.
• As a general rule, electric-powered furnace components are a little less expensive than natural gas-powered components. The cost of electric energy is also a little less expensive than natural gas in most locations.

Determining Furnace Size

You might know the current size of your furnace system, but do not assume the new system will be the same size. That means starting the process from scratch to ensure you purchase the proper size system for your home.

• Request a J-Load Calculation for your home; most heating and air conditioning contractors will complete this investigation at no charge. The technician will determine square footage, size and number of doors and windows, insulation quality, number of occupants, and the orientation of the house.
• The calculation will generate a recommendation for the size of the furnace and air conditioning equipment. The size for furnaces will be expressed in BTUs, British Thermal Units.
• Residential furnaces range between 40,000 and 120,000 BTU: generally.
• 1,200 to 2,000 square foot homes require a furnace between 60,000 and 80,000 BTU, while 2,000 square foot homes and above require 100,000 to 120,000 BTU furnaces. The J-Load Calculation will yield a more accurate size. Properly sizing the system will ensure the most efficient operation and longest useful lifespan for the system.
• The J-Load Calculation will also size air conditioning equipment. Air conditioning is sized by tonnage, so expect this to be a part of the conversation.

Furnace Efficiency

Furnace equipment also receives an efficiency rating by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) at the factory. The rating for furnaces is called Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).

• The AFUE for electric-powered furnaces is 100%: all the potential energy of electricity is converted to heat energy.
• The AFUE for natural gas-powered furnaces varies: standard furnace ratings range between 80 and 89%, and high-efficiency furnace ratings range between 90 and 98%. High-efficiency furnaces are slightly higher, but they require less energy to operate.

Furnace Installation Variables To Consider

• Furnace installation costs can vary, affecting the cost of replacing your furnace. Complicated installations, such as tight spaces and difficult locations, can affect the cost.
• Brand can affect cost. It is usually a result of quality in manufacturing.
• Timing can affect the cost of equipment and furnace installation: an emergency replacement during the coldest week of the year might result in a premium furnace installation bill.
• Inquire about manufacturers’ or utility provider rebates and incentives to defray the replacement costs.

Get Your Custom Furnace Installation Quote Today

Choosing the right heating system is a significant 20-year investment, so it is vital to have an expert guide you through the process. Our team will perform a professional J-Load calculation to ensure your new unit is perfectly sized for your home’s unique footprint and insulation. Whether you are switching fuel types or upgrading to a high-efficiency model, we provide the technical expertise to handle every detail of your furnace installation. We can also help you navigate available rebates and incentives to ensure you receive the best value for your investment. Call Northwind Air Conditioning and Heating today to request your comprehensive furnace installation quote and start the path toward long-term home comfort.