Homeowners: Must-Ask Questions Before Your Furnace Installation

When it’s time for a new furnace installation in your home, it’s more than just picking a unit and calling it a day. A furnace is a major investment, and with Calgary’s chilly winters, it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting the best solution for your home. Unfortunately, 67% of furnace buyers report dissatisfaction with their purchase due to improper setup, according to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). Organizations like ACCA exist to protect consumers, ensuring proper furnace installation and performance. Asking the right questions can help you avoid common pitfalls and make an informed decision that ensures efficiency, comfort, and long-term value.

1. What Type of Furnace is Best for My Home?

Furnaces come in various types, including natural gas, electric, and oil models. In Calgary, where natural gas is commonly available and cost-effective, a gas furnace is often the most popular choice. However, each type has its pros and cons:

• Gas Furnaces: High efficiency and low operating costs but require a gas line.
• Electric Furnaces: Great for areas without natural gas but may lead to higher electricity bills.
• Oil Furnaces: Suitable for homes without gas access, but fuel storage is required.

Ask your HVAC professional to recommend a system based on your home’s size, layout, and energy needs.

2. Why Is Proper Furnace Installation More Important Than Furnace Type?

Many homeowners focus on selecting the “best” furnace but overlook the fact that performance depends largely on installation quality. A poorly installed furnace can operate at just 50% efficiency, while a properly installed one can reach 93% efficiency, according to Energy Star. Additionally, improper furnace installation can lead to:

• Shortened lifespan – Up to 35% of the furnace’s value is lost due to poor installation.
• Frequent breakdowns – Issues like short cycling or overheating occur when a furnace isn’t correctly configured.
• Higher energy costs – A furnace struggling to perform due to installation flaws will consume more energy and drive up your bills.

Companies like JPS Furnace & Air Conditioning specialize in proper furnace installation in Calgary, ensuring correct airflow, configuration, and final validation, maximizing furnace performance and longevity.

3. What Size of Furnace Do I Need?

Getting the right size furnace is essential. An undersized furnace will struggle to heat your home, while an oversized unit can waste energy and cycle on and off too frequently, causing wear and tear. A professional HVAC technician will perform a load calculation to determine the proper size for your home based on:

• Square footage
• Insulation levels
• Number of windows and doors
• Calgary’s climate

4. What is the Furnace’s Energy Efficiency Rating?

Energy efficiency is key to reducing long-term costs. Furnace efficiency is measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). A higher AFUE means less energy is wasted. For Calgary’s cold winters, consider furnaces with at least 95% AFUE. While high-efficiency models may cost more upfront, they provide significant savings on energy bills over time.

5. What is the Furnace Installation Timeline?

In Calgary’s unpredictable weather, the installation timeline is crucial. Ask how long the process will take and whether the company can accommodate your schedule. Some installations can be completed in a day, but additional time may be needed if ductwork upgrades or other preparations are required.

6. What is the Total Furnace Installation Cost, and What Does it Include?

The cost of a new furnace includes more than just the unit. Be sure to ask for a detailed estimate that breaks down:

• The price of the furnace
• Installation costs
• Permits and inspections
• Any additional materials or upgrades

Don’t forget to inquire about rebates and financing options available in Calgary, as these can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

7. What Kind of Warranty Comes with the Furnace?

A furnace is a long-term investment, so warranty coverage is critical. Ask about:

• The manufacturer’s warranty (usually covers parts for 10 years or more).
• The installation company’s labor warranty.

Ensure you understand what’s covered and for how long, as well as any conditions to maintain the warranty, such as regular maintenance.

8. What Maintenance Will the Furnace Require?

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your furnace running efficiently and to extend its lifespan. Ask:

• How often should the furnace be serviced?
• What maintenance tasks can I do myself?
• Does the company offer maintenance plans?

In Calgary, annual furnace tune-ups are particularly important to prepare for the long heating season.

9. Does the Furnace Have Advanced Features?

Modern furnaces come with advanced features that enhance comfort and efficiency. Ask about:

• Variable-Speed Blowers: Provide consistent heating and better energy efficiency.
• Smart Thermostat Compatibility: Allows you to control heating remotely and optimize energy use.
• Zoning Options: Let you heat specific areas of your home independently.

10. Is the Installer Certified and Experienced?

Furnace installation should always be handled by certified and experienced professionals. Verify that the installer is licensed and ask about their experience with furnace installation near you. Check online reviews or ask for references to ensure you’re working with a trusted company.

11. Are There Rebates or Incentives Available?

In Calgary, homeowners may qualify for rebates or incentives when upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace. Ask your HVAC provider about any programs you can take advantage of, such as those offered by utility companies or government initiatives.

Upgrading your furnace or HVAC system? Don’t miss out on valuable rebates that can help offset costs!

• Canada Greener Homes Grant – Offers interest-free loans to retrofit energy-efficient equipment into older homes.
• City of Calgary’s Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) – Provides flexible financing to help homeowners cover the upfront costs of energy-efficient upgrades. The next application round opens this spring—stay tuned!
• Government of Alberta Rebates – Offers various incentives to reduce power and natural gas expenses.

JPS has partnered with Financit, a leader in furnace & AC financing in Calgary, offering fast, fair, and budget-friendly payment options that suit your needs.

Conclusion

Installing a furnace is a major decision that impacts your home’s comfort, energy costs, and even resale value. A properly installed furnace can operate at nearly double the efficiency of a poorly installed one, saving you money and preventing premature breakdowns. By asking these essential questions, Calgary homeowners can make informed choices and avoid costly mistakes.

Trusting an experienced and reliable HVAC provider, like JPS Furnace & Air Conditioning, ensures a smooth furnace installation in Calgary and peace of mind for years to come.

Ready to upgrade your home’s heating system? Contact JPS Furnace & Air Conditioning for expert advice, quality service, and unbeatable warranties!