Tasks To Complete Before The Experts Install Your Heater

Posted on: 17 July 2019

There are many reasons why it is a smart idea to invest in a new heating system before the cold weather sets in. And, while your HVAC professional will take care of all of the setup, there are a few things that you may want to do beforehand. Keep reading to learn about a few of them. 

Duct Leak Testing

The installation of a new heating system is the perfect time to make sure that your ductwork is free of leaks and other openings. And, the best way to ensure this is to schedule a duct leak test. This type of test involves forcing air through your ductwork and measuring the pressure of the air released through the fan. A calibrated fan is used in the situation to create the airflow and the volume of air in cubic feet is measured at the end of the ductwork.

During the testing, airflow pressure is used that is similar to the operating pressure of a standard heating system. And, if there is a significant loss, then the ductwork will be repaired and the test will be completed once again. In some cases, the ducts can and should be fully replaced. This is ideal if they are 15 to 20 years old or more. 

During the leak test, you may want to invest in a duct cleaning as well as an inspection. If an inspection reveals a great deal of mold within the system, then replacement is suggested in this case as well. This is not only important for the function of the heating system, but it also ensures good health.

Clear A Path

Most people are concerned about the space in the basement where the new heater will actually be installed. This makes sense and you should be moving boxes and other items out of the way of the natural gas inlet or electrical panel. Also, you do not want anything within about 10 feet of where the heater will be installed. 

In addition to moving items out of the way in the basement, you want to clear a path so that the installation professionals can actually get the furnace into the right area. So, you want a straight path from your front or back door to the basement. Move your furniture out of the way, and if you have a banister or handgrip on the wall along the basement stairs, then you want to remove this as well. Otherwise, the heater may get caught on this on the way down the stairs. For more information, contact an heating installation contractor in your area.

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