Furnaces
A Homeowner’s Guide on How to Prepare for HVAC Installation
By Tom Moor•December 17, 2024So, you’ve scheduled a new HVAC installation for your home – congratulations! Whether you’re upgrading an inefficient system or installing a brand-new one due to a failure, your HVAC installation project will result in a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.
Before the HVAC technicians arrive, there are a few things you should do to make sure everything goes smoothly. Preparing in advance can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure that your installation goes off without a hitch. The pros at HVAC.com have put together some pointers on how to prepare for HVAC installation so you’re ready when the big day comes.
1. Clear the Area Around the Installation Site
One of the easiest yet most important tasks you can do before your installation is to clear the area where the HVAC technicians will be working. Whether it’s the furnace closet, attic, basement, or outdoor space, make sure the installation area is accessible. Remove any furniture, boxes, or personal items that could obstruct the technicians’ movement or be in the way.
HVAC installations often require some heavy lifting, moving equipment, and setting up ducts or pipes. Clearing the area will allow the team to work efficiently and safely in your home. It also helps to prevent any potential damage to your belongings in the process.
2. Crate or Secure Pets
HVAC systems are installed in various areas of a house, including attics, basements, and crawl spaces, which can be noisy or unfamiliar to pets. Cats, dogs, and other animals may get startled by the noise. Plus, installation day brings new people into your home, and it’s natural for pets to be curious about the technicians and their tools.
Before the installation team arrives, secure your pets in a safe room away from the work zone. If possible, place them in a crate or a room where they can’t wander into the installation area. This helps keep your pets calm and prevents them from getting in the way of the workers.
3. Be Available to Answer Questions
Schedule your HVAC installation for a time when you will be home. While the technician doesn’t need your constant supervision, your presence allows for easy communication and access to your home when needed.
It’s also helpful to be at home because there may be questions that come up during the installation process. Whether you’re curious about how the system is set up or want to make sure you know how to use it correctly, you’ll have the chance to speak face-to-face with the installation team and get the answers you need right away.
4. Check for Electrical or Plumbing Access
HVAC systems are connected to the home’s electrical system, and some units, like boilers, require plumbing connections. The technicians need to access these systems to install the HVAC unit correctly.
Check that electrical panels are easily accessible and that there’s no clutter blocking any plumbing lines. If the technician can’t access the electrical or plumbing systems easily, it may delay the installation process. A clear path will allow the technician to complete the job quickly and safely.
5. Make Sure the Thermostat Location Is Clear
Even though the new HVAC system is installed in other areas of the home, the technician will need to access your thermostat to complete the setup, which is usually located in main living areas.
The technician needs to connect the thermostat with the new unit for the HVAC system to work effectively. It may be necessary to replace an old thermostat with a new model that’s compatible with the new HVAC system, or you might choose to have a more advanced thermostat installed.
The thermostat’s location impacts how effectively your HVAC system works, too. If it’s placed in an area that’s too drafty or too exposed to heat from direct sunlight and appliances, it could affect temperature regulation in your home. The technicians will check placement and suggest relocating it if necessary.