If your furnace is well over a decade old, it might be time to replace it so you don't have to deal with a breakdown when the weather is cold. A heating installation can often be completed in a single day, but it may take several hours, so you may want to schedule the job for a day with mild weather. Here are some things your furnace installer may need to do.

Determine What Equipment Is Needed

Choosing the right furnace is a big decision. If your furnace isn't the right size, it may not warm your home as well as you want or it might not work efficiently. An HVAC contractor can perform load calculations to find the perfect size for your home. Then you can choose the furnace you want based on the features it offers.

You'll also need to decide if you only need a new furnace or if you'll get a new central air conditioner at the same time. It might be best to replace both since the AC uses some of the same parts as the furnace. Your furnace installer also determines if you need new ducts. If so, that adds to the time needed for the installation.

Remove And Haul Away The Old Equipment

The first step is to disconnect the old furnace and take it out of your house. The installation company should also haul the old furnace and ducts away so you don't have to deal with it. Be sure to have the area around the furnace, ducts, and air conditioner cleared of clutter so the installers can work freely and maneuver large and heavy equipment.

Install The New Furnace

If you're getting a new HVAC system that includes an air conditioner, the installation is a little different than if you're only getting a furnace. If you're getting a new AC, the installer needs to set up the condenser outside and add evaporator coils to the furnace if the furnace doesn't have them already.

Your furnace may also need a drainage system installed. A high-efficiency furnace creates condensation that needs to drain outdoors. If you have an AC hooked up to the furnace, a drain system is needed to drain away condensation made by the refrigerant coil.

If your thermostat is old too, you'll probably want to replace it when you have your new furnace installed. A modern thermostat can help your furnace run more efficiently when you program your furnace in advance or use smart features to monitor your energy use.

The heating installation process is complex and time-consuming, but you'll appreciate having a furnace that works well when the weather is chilly. Once the installation is complete, take time to read the owner's manual so you understand how to care for the equipment so it has a long life and works efficiently.