New heating system installation in your home probably seems daunting. Since HVAC consumption accounts for about 50% of our home energy costs, it’s a pretty important system in our homes! Partnering with the right licensed heating company should make the project go smoothly, but some proper planning ahead of time is also crucial.
Even though most homeowners do not install their own heating systems, it’s important to understand the process. Here are our tips for preparing for a new heating system installation –
Without a doubt, in the northeast, summertime is the best time to replace heating equipment. Not only because you won’t need any heat during this time so you can have your system out of commission, but for several other reasons as well:
Installing new, major equipment in your home is disruptive. Work zones are no place for children or pets. The commotion, additional people, and loud noises can be upsetting for pets. For the safety of your kids and pets, as well as for our technicians, make arrangements for the days of the installation. Children and pets should be kept away from work zones. Be sure to have areas in other parts of the house for them to stay safely, or arrange for them to spend the day elsewhere.
Depending on the type of system you are installing, and if your installation is a replacement system or totally new system, evaluate if any of your existing ductwork and/or heat registers need replacement or repair. It’s the perfect time to have your ductwork cleaned before installing the new system. Ductwork and heat registers are essential components to effective heating systems. It’s important to include them in the initial inspection when your and your technician are planning your new system. Repairs or replacements will also extend the length of the project. This is an important step to ensuring your new system runs as efficiently as possible.
This is a good time to upgrade your thermostats as well, especially if your current one is not programmable. Your new system will likely have all sorts of energy efficient features, so your thermostat has to come equipped to take advantage of those. There are smart thermostats on the market that allow you to control your system when you are away which adds to both comfort and safety.
Like pretty much any home improvement, unexpected issues may come up. Along with needing to repair or replace ductwork and/or registers, wood rot, electrical issues, or hazards such as asbestos may rear their ugly heads. Many of these issues cannot be seen until the project begins. Since these all increase both the scope and cost of your project, it’s wise to plan for both additional time and expenses.
Before installation day arrives, clear the area for both your new system and the path leading there of any clutter or obstacles. This equipment is heavy and cumbersome. Clear a big enough area for the new equipment, and for the installation team and their tools. Clear away outside foliage, and remove furniture, storage, and décor from indoor areas. Also be sure to remove anything in the work zone that is of particular value such as antiques, paintings or artwork, or special memorabilia. Also minimize any chance that your property could be accidentally damage during the installation.
While you don’t want to be hovering underfoot when technicians are doing the installation, plan to be available for questions. Plan to have an initial walkthrough the day of installation just to make sure everyone is on the same page. Be sure to ask any questions you have, and go through the scope of the project with the techs on site. There may be questions that arise or decisions to make and your accessibility will ensure the project isn’t halted unnecessarily.
Once the installation is complete, be sure to observe testing of everything, and make sure you are clear on how to run your new equipment. This is a good time to go over how to maintain your system, and how to use your new thermostat.
A new heating system can be one of the best investments you can make in your home. Since heating is very expensive, modernizing your equipment to a higher efficiency system is going to pay off. Because new heating systems add greater convenience and comfort to your home, they have an even better payoff!
There are so many benefits to installing a new heating system in your home. Greater comfort, peace of mind, and significant energy savings name just a few. You will also have better indoor air quality and less noise from running equipment.
Our team is here to help guide you through choosing your new heating system installation, and make sure you are fully prepared for the project. Planning ahead for your new system helps keep the project on schedule and will give you the best job. Learn more about our Heating System Services.