Upgrading to a new furnace is a big deal—it’s all about making your home comfortable and more energy-efficient. But it’s not just about picking out a shiny new model and calling it a day. You’ve got to think about the right size, the type of furnace that works best for your home, and how it will fit into your existing heating system space. Whether you’re ditching an old, worn-out unit or want to step up your comfort game, getting everything right from the start makes the whole process go smoothly—and ensures you’ll be happy with your furnace for the next 10 to 15 years.
That’s where Southland Heating & Air Conditioning comes in Newbury Park, CA. We assist people in caring for their furnaces, including upgrading to a new model. Read on to learn more about selecting the right furnace for your home.
Choosing the Right Furnace for Your Home
When installing a new furnace, the first thing you need to do is select the right system for your home. This selection extends beyond just picking the most energy-efficient or highest-rated model. Your home’s size, insulation, and existing ductwork are significant in selecting which furnace will provide the greatest results. A too-tiny furnace will not sufficiently heat your house, but one that is too big may result in short-cycling, increased energy expenditures, and needless wear and tear.
You’ll also want to consider what fuel your new furnace will use. Gas furnaces are a favorite because they’re cost-effective and pack a serious heating punch. But if natural gas isn’t an option where you live, electric or oil furnaces might be the way to go. And don’t forget about the newer hybrid or dual-fuel systems—they’re like the dream team of electric heat pumps and gas furnaces, working together for maximum efficiency.
Review Your Home’s Heating Needs
Your new furnace should be tailored to your home’s specific heating requirements. This goes beyond square footage—factors like ceiling height, window types, and your home’s layout also come into play. For example, a multi-story home may require additional zoning or modifications to ensure even heating.
This is also a great time to think about your long-term energy goals. Do you want to save money on your heating bill, lessen your carbon footprint, or increase your comfort? Modern furnaces have sophisticated features such as variable-speed blowers, modulating burners, and smart thermostats, which may improve performance and efficiency. These elements assist in making your home more pleasant while lowering your monthly energy expenditures.
If your home is older, consider having an HVAC professional assess your ductwork and insulation. Leaky ducts and poor insulation can significantly impact your furnace’s efficiency, and addressing these issues now can save you time and money.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Installing a furnace isn’t a weekend DIY project. The process requires precise calculations, specialized tools, and a thorough understanding of HVAC systems. A professional installation guarantees that your furnace runs smoothly and securely. It also protects your investment by adhering to manufacturer guidelines, critical for maintaining warranty coverage.
A qualified technician will carefully inspect your home’s HVAC system during installation. This includes checking the condition of your ductwork, evaluating airflow, and ensuring proper venting. Ventilation is essential for gas furnaces, as improper venting can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
An expert will also calibrate your new system to ensure maximum efficiency. This involves testing the thermostat, inspecting for leaks, and ensuring all connections are secure. While expert installation may seem to be an unnecessary investment, it pays for itself in the long term by avoiding expensive errors and increasing the life of your furnace.
Furnace Efficiency Ratings
You’ll encounter terms like AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings when shopping for a furnace. This number shows a furnace’s annual efficiency in converting fuel into heat. For example, a 95% AFUE rating stove converts 95% of its fuel into heat, with only 5% lost as exhaust.
Higher AFUE ratings usually indicate more energy efficiency but may also come with a higher initial cost. It is critical to balance efficiency, budget, and heating demands. A heater with a medium efficiency level may be enough if you live in a warmer area. In colder regions, however, high-efficiency types are usually better.
Efficiency ratings also tie into environmental considerations. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, choosing a high-efficiency furnace or exploring alternative systems like geothermal heating can align with your goals. Your HVAC professional can help you weigh the costs and benefits of various options to make the best choice for your home.
Preparing for Install Day
Once you’ve selected your furnace and scheduled an installation, there are a few things you can do to prepare. Clear the space surrounding your present HVAC system so technicians can easily reach it. Remove any clutter, furniture, or obstacles that might get in the way. This ensures the process is efficient and helps avoid accidental damage to your belongings.
Confirm that someone is present at home for the installation. The technicians may ask about your preferences, such as thermostat location or special heating zones. They will also show you how to use the system after installation.
If you have dogs or children, prepare to keep them out of the workplace for safety reasons. Installation requires tools, equipment, and noise, which may be distracting or dangerous. Taking these steps helps guarantee that the procedure runs smoothly and on time.
Maintaining Your New Furnace
A new furnace is a significant investment, so it’s worth taking steps to keep it in top condition. Regular maintenance ensures your system operates efficiently and can extend its lifespan. Schedule an annual tune-up with your HVAC professional to catch potential issues early and keep your furnace running smoothly.
During a maintenance visit, the technician inspects critical components like the blower motor, burners, and heat exchanger. They clean any buildup, check for wear and tear, and replace filters if needed. These minor adjustments can significantly affect your furnace’s performance and prevent breakdowns during peak heating season.
It’s also essential to change your furnace filters regularly, typically every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and your household’s needs. Clean filters improve airflow, enhance indoor air quality, and reduce strain on your system. If you’re unsure which filter suits your furnace, before throwing the old filters away, take note of the size printed on the filters to know which ones to get.
When It’s Time To Upgrade
Installing a new furnace is like giving your home a cozy, energy-efficient upgrade. It boosts comfort, helps save on energy bills, and just makes life better overall. By getting the essential details right—like choosing the right size, picking the correct fuel type, and calling in the pros for installation—you’ll make sure your furnace runs at its best and saves you money in the long run. You can be sure of peace of mind and better results if you let experienced professionals help you. We also offer AC and furnace repair, furnace installation, maintenance, heat pumps, ductwork, indoor air quality, and roofing services.
Contact Southland Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule your consultation and make your furnace upgrade hassle-free.
