How furnaces are installed

Installing a furnace is a difficult process that should not be attempted by homeowners as a do-it-yourself project. Furnaces come with multiple complicated components, including ductwork, electrical, plumbing, and gas that require the help of expert HVAC professionals with special tools. Here is a brief overview of how furnaces are installed.

Choosing the installation location

After you have picked your furnace, you will need to choose the right location for it to be installed. The proper place to install your new furnace will depend on which type of furnace that you purchase and your plans for how to use the rest of the space. When you purchase your furnace, it will include installation specifications that explain the requirements for ventilation and clearance. Before your installation professional arrives, make certain to thoroughly clean the area where it will be installed. If your furnace will be installed in a basement, you will want to have blocks that are a minimum of four inches higher than the ground to protect the furnace from floods. Using rubber isolation pads can help to reduce the noise when your furnace runs.

Determine where to run the duct and drain

Determining where to run the duct and drain is the next step of the installation process. The return air duct will be located on the bottom or side of the unit and will require the installation professional to cut a hole into it. The installer will then determine which side to run the drain and put your furnace into the proper position with a slight slope towards the drain’s exit.

Connect the furnace

After positioning the furnace, the installer will then connect it to your home’s duct system. The connections will be sealed with duct sealant or metal foil tape. The installer will then connect the intake and exhaust pipes of the furnace at a slight angle to allow condensation to safely drain. Then, the installer will connect the furnace’s gas supply, making certain that it is properly ventilated and does not leak.

The installer will then connect the furnace’s electrical supply. Furnaces normally have low and line voltage connections, making it important for the installer to be careful of the polarity. He or she will check the wiring to make certain that it is correct before running your furnace. The installer will then connect the drain with a hose.

After everything is connected, your HVAC professional will check his or her work. He or she will turn the unit on and run a heating cycle to make certain that the temperature outputs match the manufacturer’s specifications. He or she will also check for gas leaks and the drain to make certain it is draining correctly.

Furnace installation involves numerous complex steps and requires the help of an experienced HVAC technician. When you purchase a new furnace for your home, make certain that you choose an installation professional with the expertise that is required for this type of job. Contact Champion Air Conditioning & Heating to request a quote by calling us at 760.736.4100.

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