Most Recent: December 31, 1969
When it comes to installing a furnace, many homeowners have some preconceived notions and myths that lead to confusion or poor decision-making. Some may think that this is a quick DIY job, while others may believe that higher-efficiency models aren't worth the investment. All these misconceptions may end up costing you more in the long run. In this article, we'll tackle six common Peoria, AZ, furnace installation myths, setting the record straight with facts that will help you make more informed choices for your home's heating needs. 1. The Installation is a Simple DIY Task One of the most persistent myths is that the installation can be done without professional help. Although replacing a filter or a simple furnace tune-up can be done, installing a furnace is a job requiring more knowledge in terms of gas lines, electrical systems, and ventilation. Serious safety risks can occur if someone tackles this job, including gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, and electrical fires. The most prudent course is to hire licensed professionals who know exactly how to place your furnace safely and efficiently. 2. Bigger Furnaces are Always Better Another common myth is that bigger furnaces are always better for heating your home. While it may seem logical that a larger unit would produce more heat, an oversized furnace can lead to problems such as poor energy efficiency, frequent cycling, and uneven heating throughout your home. Proper furnace sizing is crucial for optimal performance. HVAC professionals determine the right size for you by calculating your home square footage, insulation, etc., to ensure that the right furnace is being procured for you. 3. High-Efficiency Furnace Does Not Worth the Money Some homeowners think that getting a high-efficiency furnace is not worth the money, as most of these systems demand higher prices upfront. However, these furnaces save money in terms of energy bills in the long run. Furnaces with higher AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings use less fuel to generate the same amount of heat, meaning they’re more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. Over the lifespan of the unit, you’ll likely recoup the initial investment through savings on energy bills.4. Furnace Installation Only Needs to Be Done When the Old One Breaks Many people wait until their furnace actually breaks down completely before seriously considering replacing it. Still, that's costly as well. Often enough, waiting for your furnace to fail can cost much more in emergency repairs or replacement than having a strategy before the actual failure occurs. An older furnace may not even hold heat well, and some simply use up too much fuel, ratcheting the heating bill way up. You can schedule a furnace replacement when it starts to break down so you can replace it with a more energy-efficient model, thus saving yourself from the stress of a breakdown.5. It's Okay to Skip Ductwork Inspection One of the common misconceptions is that as long as the furnace was installed correctly, it is not necessary to inspect or maintain the ductwork. In fact, undersized or leaky ducts can actually make your furnace less efficient, causing it to work harder and spend more of your money. Having the ductwork inspected and sealed at the time of furnace installation ensures that your heating system operates at its best. Proper airflow is important for distributing heat evenly throughout your home, so do not miss this step.6. Furnace Requires no Maintenance Most people who install a furnace think it is a one-time process and forget about it after that. However, there is much more to ensure your furnace continues to function safely and efficiently. Proper annual maintenance that involves cleaning, inspecting, and servicing the unit can lengthen the lifespan of the furnace, reduce energy consumption, and help avoid breakdowns. With regular maintenance, you also discover potential problems before they develop into significant issues, and you save money on expensive repairs. By busting these six common myths regarding furnace installation, you will be better prepared and equipped to make a quality decision when it is the time to replace or put a new furnace in place. Remember that professional installation is key to safety as well as efficiency, so the right size and model for your household will save you money and not waste energy.If you're ready to install a new furnace for your home, contact the experienced team at Five Star Air at 623-244-0414. FAQs1. How long does it take to install a new furnace? The installation process typically takes anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the complexity of the installation and whether additional modifications, such as ductwork adjustments, are needed. A professional HVAC technician will assess the specifics of your home to provide a more accurate estimate. 2. What is the best time of year to install a furnace? The best time for furnace installation is during fall or spring when demand for heating and cooling services has been usually low. Making the installation during these periods will avoid long wait times and even save on installation costs.