Home » Blog » What Should You Do To Prepare Before a Heater Installation?

What Should You Do To Prepare Before a Heater Installation?

What Should You Do To Prepare Before a Heater Installation?

When the day of your heating installation arrives, there are a few important steps you can take to ensure that everything goes according to plan. Before the big day, our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians will confirm the appointment and walk you through what to expect. From start to finish, you can generally expect the entire replacement process to take less than a day to complete.

To learn more about how you can prepare, read on.

How To Prepare for Your Heater Installation

We recommend performing the following steps to get ready for your new heating system.

Add It to Your Calendar

You don’t want to forget about your appointment by accident. While we will always send reminders, it helps to have the appointment date written on your calendar as well. Our punctual HVAC technicians will show up at the exact time with all the equipment we need to get started.

Additionally, it’s generally a good idea to clear your schedule for the day. Although many of our installations take just four hours to complete, the scope and complexity of each project can vary. As a result, some projects may take a full day. In rare cases, the technician may have to come back the next day to wrap up the final touches.

Clean Indoors and Outdoors

Before we arrive, you should clear space indoors and outdoors. Start by thinking about where we will need to park our vehicle and how the unit will come inside. For example, you may want to clear bikes off your patio and remove branches in the pathway.

Inside your home, you’ll need to make room for the installer to move the unit around. Furniture and other belongings should be moved out of the way so that the dolly’s wheels don’t catch on anything.

Keep in mind that the installer will also be removing your old heater. They will need to have a clean space to work, so sweep away any dust. Additionally, it’s essential to clear away clutter around your heater to prevent fires.

Talk to Members of Your Household

Before your appointment arrives, you’ll need to inform other family members about the upcoming installation. Depending on the outdoor temperature, you may need to figure out a different heat source. Because the electricity and gas lines will be turned off, you’ll also need to plan for what your family will be eating during the installation process.

Restrain Pets

When heavy HVAC systems are being moved around, you don’t want pets to accidentally get in the way. Additionally, the technician will need to open the door to bring in the heat pump or furnace. To prevent the animal from escaping, it’s a good idea to restrain them in a bedroom or in your backyard.

What Technicians Do on Installation Day

On installation day, technicians will work through the standard process for removing old units, preparing the site, and installing the new unit. Once these tasks are complete, they’ll rigorously test the heating system to ensure its performance and safety. As a homeowner, you can expect the technician to carry out the following steps.

  • Conduct the Initial Walkthrough: The technician will conduct a walkthrough to look for potential problems. They will review the plan before starting.
  • Protect the Floor: Next, the technician will use drop cloths and floor coverings to protect your floors and belongings.
  • Disconnect the Gas or Power: As a safety measure, your gas must be disconnected before a new unit can be installed. Similarly, electricity must be shut off at the breaker.
  • Remove the Old System: Next, the technician will carefully remove the old heat pump or furnace. It will be disconnected and disposed of, so you don’t have to deal with it.
  • Prepare the Site: Prior to installing the new unit, the technician will need to make sure that the site is fully prepared. They will verify that your electrical connections, ductwork, and plumbing will work with the new unit.
  • Install the Unit: Once everything is fully prepared, the new unit can be installed. It must be safely leveled and mounted.
  • Reconnect Lines, Vents, and Electrical Systems: Electrical systems, gas lines, and venting must be connected to the furnace. If a heat pump is installed, the indoor air handler and outdoor condenser must be connected to each other via refrigerant lines.
  • Test and Calibrate the Unit: Performance tests and calibrations must be performed to make sure your system has the correct airflow, air quality, and temperature. The technician will also verify that there are no gas leaks or electrical problems.

Once all of these steps are complete, the technician will clean up their workspace and remove any debris. They’ll also conduct a final walkthrough to ensure everything is in working order. Before the technician leaves, they’ll review how to operate the new unit and discuss the best maintenance steps to maximize your heating system’s lifespan.

Get Ready for Your Next Installation

You don’t have to stress about getting ready for your heater installation. Before the installation day arrives, we’ll carefully walk you through the entire process and answer any questions that you may have.

To learn more about how to prepare for your next HVAC installation in Bradenton, give One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating a call today. We’re on time, or you don’t pay a dime!