When most people picture furnace installation, they usually picture their new furnace being connected to the ductwork; however, the installation process starts way before that. Not only do you have choices to make when it comes to installing a new furnace, you have to consider size and your home’s needs. As such, there are some steps to take to ensure that your heating installation in Alexandria goes as needed.
Types of Furnaces
There are two main types of furnaces you can choose from: electric or combustion, which is usually fueled by natural gas, but can also be fueled by propane or oil. Both electric and gas furnaces can heat your home effectively and efficiently, but each does so a little differently. Electric furnaces heat via hot coils that are electrified; these coils are part of a component known as the heating element. In combustion furnaces, the burner heats a component known as a heat exchanger. Electric furnaces have become very energy efficient over the years, and not all homes have access to natural gas. However, if you do have access to natural gas, you can enjoy the convenience of a constant source of fuel that can also fuel other appliances like dryers and hot water heaters.
Sizing
Furnaces aren’t one-size-fits-all; a furnace that is too small won’t meet your heating needs and a furnace that is too big will heat your home too quickly, making it ineffective. So how do you determine the right size? Have a professional calculate the heat load for your home. This calculation takes into account a number of things, including the size of your home, the orientation, daytime heat gain, insulation levels and other important factors.
Installation Day
Once you’ve determined which furnace to install in your home, you can do the following to help with the installation process:
- Clear the area leading to and around the furnace – during an installation, your old furnace needs to be removed before the new one can be installed. This takes room, so if you can clear away objects that may cause impediments to the technicians, that is very helpful.
- Have touch-up paint for thermostat – if you are also upgrading your thermostat, you may have some wall showing that didn’t with your previous thermostat that you’ll want to touch-up.
A new furnace installation in Alexandria offers you the opportunity for better energy efficiency, better comfort and better reliability.
If you are ready for a new heater, call OASIS Heating, A/C & Refrigeration, Inc., today!