Paying attention to safety, using proper tools, and carefully planning things out is the best way to install a furnace. It’s a complex process. Whether you’re upgrading an old furnace or setting up a brand-new system, following the right steps can help you optimize for performance and longevity.
Table of Contents
- Preparing for Furnace Installation
- Choosing the Right Furnace
- Removing the Old Furnace
- Installing the New Furnace
- Connecting the Ductwork and Venting
- Wiring and Testing the Furnace
- Final Inspection and Maintenance Tips
Implementing the proper furnace installation steps in Calgary can help you make informed decisions, ensuring efficiency, safety, and compliance with local regulations. To install a furnace, follow these key steps:
Preparing for Furnace Installation
It’s absolutely paramount to get the right tools, materials, and safety equipment in place before you begin installing a new furnace. Keeping the workspace clear helps make the installation as efficient as possible. Safety Precautions and Tools Needed
Wearing safety glasses and gloves helps prevent injuries during the installation of your furnace. Always turn off the gas and electricity supply before you start doing any work. Have tools handy that will help you secure and test connections like drills and a wrench set. Maintain proper ventilation so that there is no carbon monoxide build-up in the area that you’re working in.
Choosing the Right Furnace
Picking the right furnace involves several considerations, including the size of your home, surrounding climate conditions, and how well-insulated your house is.
Types of Furnaces
It shouldn’t surprise you to know that gas furnaces are the most common because they are cost-effective and efficient. That doesn’t mean an electric furnace doesn’t have its place as well. Oil furnaces are still found in some homes, but they are not as common anymore.
Sizing Your Furnace
Choosing a furnace with the right BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating ensures efficient heating. If you call a professional, they can perform a heat load calculation and figure out the right size for your home.
Removing the Old Furnace
Old furnaces need to be removed before you install a new one.
Steps for Safe Removal
Double-check to make sure that you turned off both the gas and the power supplied by the furnace. Then, disconnect the wiring and the ductwork and make sure no components are exposed or loose. Lastly, remove the old furnace carefully so that you don’t damage surrounding structures.
Installing the New Furnace
Installing the new furnace and putting it in place can happen as soon as you remove the old one.
Positioning the Furnace
Make sure the furnace is on a level surface so that you can maintain its stability. Leave enough space around the furnace for proper airflow and maintenance access.
Securing the Furnace
Prevent shifting or movement by securing the furnace using brackets. Double-check that the ductwork and ventilation system are aligned so that there is a seamless connection.
Connecting the Ductwork and Venting
Proper venting and ductwork are crucial for the efficient operation and safety of your furnace.
Attaching the Duct System
Seal duct connections using metal tape or mastic to prevent air leaks. Ensuring airflow efficiency is key to maintaining consistent heating throughout your house.
Installing the Venting System
Follow manufacturer guidelines for vent pipe sizing and secure the vent pipes tightly to prevent gas leaks. Proper venting helps remove harmful exhaust gases and improves furnace efficiency.
Wiring and Testing the Furnace
Once the furnace is in place, connect the electrical wiring and test the system.
Electrical Connections
Use the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the thermostat wiring and check the accuracy of temperature control. The electrical connections must be secured properly so that there is no short-circuiting or malfunctioning.
Testing the Furnace
If you want to test out your furnace, the first thing you need to do is turn on the power and the gas supply. Check for leaks in the connection using a soap and water solution. The final thing you want to do is run a test cycle to ensure that the furnace properly ignites, that air is flowing, and that heat is distributed evenly throughout the home.
Final Inspection and Maintenance Tips
After going through the installation process, it’s time to check everything to make sure it works.
Post-Installation Checklist
Go through all of the connections and make sure they are tight so that you prevent issues from arising in the future. Confirm that the airflow is optimal and that the thermostat is operating the way it’s supposed to. If you hear any unusual noises or smell any unusual odours, there might be a problem.
Ongoing Maintenance
Replacing the filters of your furnace regularly can prolong its lifespan. Conducting annual inspections is a good idea. So is keeping the surrounding area clean.
By following these steps, homeowners can ensure their heating system is installed safely and in a way that promotes energy efficiency throughout the entire home.
