Sky has been serving the Portland area since 1979. We know a great deal about furnaces and HVAC systems in general. While we’re trusted for quality furnace installation and support, we believe it’s important for our customers to understand the installation process. The more informed and prepared you are, the more likely it is you’ll find the ideal furnace for your home.
5 Essential Furnace Installation Facts
1. Furnaces Must Be Properly Sized
A bigger furnace won’t heat your home more effectively if it’s not designed for your home’s square footage. There are a whole bunch of other factors to consider as well, like the type and how many windows you have, quality of insulation, use of heat-generating appliances, and the climate you live in. The condition and overall design of your ductwork plays a role as well.
If you choose the wrong sized model, you’ll likely see lower efficiency and perhaps reduced comfort. An HVAC contractor can assess your home and various factors to determine the best furnace size.
2. Maximum Efficiency Requires Functional Ducts and Air Vents
Home ductwork and air vents should be professionally inspected before a new furnace installation. Poorly sealed ducts can result in substantial energy loss, while dirt and debris can reduce the efficiency and performance of your furnace. Ventilation issues can make gas furnaces unsafe, so make sure air ducts are unobstructed and sealed prior to installation. An energy efficient furnace will save on your energy bills only if the duct system is distributing heat properly. Duct cleaning/sealing is an extra step, but will result in long-term savings.
3. A Programmable Thermostat Saves Energy and Money
With a programmable thermostat, you can set a schedule for the furnace. For example, the temperature can be adjusted if you won’t be home for a while. The unit can also automatically switch to the desired settings before your return home. Depending on the model, you can set programs for different days or vary the schedule for weekdays and weekends. For the most savings, install the unit on an interior wall away from lighting, appliances, HVAC registers, fireplaces, or a window.
4. Furnace Installation Should Be Completed by a Professional
Most likely, you won’t save money by installing a furnace yourself. If improperly installed, it could be much less efficient and even unsafe to operate. Professional installers plan the installation process, ensuring all required parts are on hand and that your ducts are in working order. They have all the tools and materials to safely and cleanly remove old equipment. A complete check of your HVAC system will be done before installation and the technician will make any adjustments or repairs necessary. A professional can also help you understand the operating manual and advise you on the right care and maintenance for your new furnace.
5. Furnace Care Doesn’t End with Installation
When your furnace is professionally installed, it should work flawlessly for a while. But regular maintenance and tune-ups will help it remain efficient and possibly extend operating life. Also, electrical connections, gas lines, and condensate drains may need periodic adjustments. Failure to properly maintain the unit can result in a clogged drain line, water damage, and other serious issues. A dirty air filter, faulty gas connection, or issues with burner combustion or gas pressure can result in dangerous situations such as fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide exposure.
Contact Sky Heating & Air Conditioning for Furnace Installation
Our crew is trained and experienced with installation, repair, and maintenance of all types of heating and cooling equipment. We’re trusted for professional furnace installation in Portland and surrounding communities. And whether you need help with an air conditioner, ductwork, or plumbing issue, you can trust us to fix it quickly. To schedule a visit, inform us of the situation and set up your appointment online, or call 541-275-2918 to speak with a representative.