Heater Installation

Whether replacing an aging HVAC system or determining the proper system for a new home, the decisions you make can impact the comfort and wellbeing of your family for the next twenty years. Since people do not purchase central heat and air on a whim or as an impulse, you will want to take some time to research and have questions answered. Before you begin to feel overwhelmed, let us share with you several considerations you need to know before deciding.

Hire Professionals for Heater Installation

Unless you are the ultimate do-it-yourselfer, it is in your best interest to hire an HVAC professional to design and install the system. Reputable companies or individuals will have certifications, references, and years of experience. Since this system will last 15 to 20 years, you should find someone with whom you can develop a long-term relationship, someone that you feel comfortable inviting back to your home for maintenance and repairs. Do some investigating, ask plenty of questions. Insist on quality workmanship and customer service.

Choose a Brand

A decision that goes hand-in-hand with choosing a professional is choosing a brand of the HVAC system. Most installers are associated with one or more brands of equipment. Companies design products they think will fit in particular market niches, very similar to automobile manufacturers. There will be advantages and disadvantages with each brand.

Which should have priority, the professional installer or the brand of product? You decide.

A Custom System

Whether you are replacing an old system or buying a new one, always request the installation professional to customize the new system.

•  A calculation is made on the criteria present in your existing home; how many windows and doors, the R-value of the insulation, the number of floors, the square footage, and more.
• Advanced designs increase the efficiency of units consistently. Certain technologies are available now that were not available 20 years ago.
• Any remodeling or room additions can be a part of the new calculation.

Within a manufacturer’s product line, you will see various options—standard and deluxe models. A custom design will allow you to discuss options and results with the installation professional.

After completing the calculations and customizing your preferred design, the installer will provide you with a job estimate, with material and labor costs. The design calculation and cost estimate should be free of charge but ask ahead of time to avoid misunderstandings.

Considering Heater Installation Conversion?

If you are considering converting an HVAC system from one power source to another, here are a few considerations.

• Converting between readily available power sources is not a big problem; i.e., switch between natural gas and electricity, when both are supplied to the house. An upgrade of your electric service panel might be required.
• Converting to a power source without supply can be prohibitively expensive, i.e., bring natural gas into an all-electric home.

Permits and Inspections

Depending on your location, this project may require a building permit and building inspections. Your professional installer will be familiar with local requirements, know the procedures and have a good working relationship with all involved. Talk with your installation professional about the process; this should be included in his estimate, not a separate expense.

If a permit and inspection are required, the installer stops work at the appropriate time to allow the inspector access to the progress. A final inspection will also be scheduled at the end of the project to ensure the system has been installed correctly. If a permit/inspection is not required, you can ask that internal inspections be completed by the installation company for your peace of mind.

Cost Saving Measures

As part of your decision-making, inquire of the installation professional concerning Federal, State, local, or company incentives or rebates. Usually, the incentives will be more for the most energy-efficient choices. You should also experience noticeable energy cost savings each month; results may vary but expect up to 30% savings by installing a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.

Have questions about New Heater Installation?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Heater Installation, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.