Time to install a new furnace? If your furnace install has been long overdue, you may be wondering just how much time it will take to remove and install the new one. In this article, we’ll dig into the factors that affect the length of installation time, plus the individual steps involved in the installation process and how long approximately each step can take.

How long does it take to take out and install a new furnace?

There’s a pretty large range for how long it takes to install a new furnace. The entire process can take anywhere between 4 hours to up to 10.

Of course, there are some factors that could affect this range. Those are as follows:

  • Complexity: How complex the existing heating system is, and how complex the upcoming heating system will be is generally a huge factor in how much time the overall installation process will take. If ductwork must be replaced or modifications must be made to the gas lines or electrical lines, it will take longer.
  • Home Size: The size of your home or the size of the building where the furnace is being installed may impact the length of the installation, as the higher the volume capacity will be in order to evenly distribute heat throughout the building.
  • Type of Furnace: Some furnaces require more work than others; depending on the furnace being installed, especially if it’s vastly different than the existing one, the time it takes to install may be longer.

Here are the steps involved in taking out and installing a brand new furnace:

1- Preparation and Assessment

Before any work may be done, your technician will likely take some time to assess the existing systems, including all ventilation, ductwork, and furnace units. They will then gauge the most efficient approach for removing the old furnace, and then installing the new one. This stage could involve taking measurements, evaluating the electrical and gas connections, and planning the installation process. It could take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

2- The Removal of the Old Furnace

The removal of the existing furnace is a process in and of itself, and can take anywhere between 2-4 hours to complete. The first step in any installation process (barring the case of new builds or constructions with alternative existing systems) is the removal of the existing furnace. The time that this takes within the range of the 2-4 hours is largely dependent upon several factors, such as the type of furnace, the conditioning of existing ductwork systems, and accessibility to the furnace.

3- The New Furnace Installation

Installing the new furnace includes setting it in place, connecting gas and electrical lines, integrating it with the existing ductwork, and ensuring proper ventilation. The time required can vary based on the type of furnace, any modifications needed for compatibility, and the level of intricacy involved. This process generally takes as little as 2-4 hours, but up to 8 hours to complete for more complex, intricate HVAC systems.

4- Testing the New Furnace

Once the new furnace is installed, your HVAC technician will test its functionality to ensure it's operating properly and efficiently. This includes checking for gas leaks, verifying proper airflow, and calibration settings. This is a critical step in the overall process, so it’s best to hire a technician who won’t overlook this part! Testing ensures that everything has been done correctly and that there’s no risk of leaks or contaminant issues. Testing can take anywhere between 30 minutes to up to 2 hours.

5- Final Inspection and Clean-Up

Once installation and testing has been complete, your technician may do a final inspection to ensure everything is up to snuff. If adjustments need to be made, then this is the time to be doing them. They’ll also ensure that the installation area is clean and tidy.

Can a furnace be installed in one day?

Assuming no complex issues arise or any unexpected problems, and the residence or building doesn’t feature any over complex existing HVAC system that would require hours and hours of additional installation or modifications, reasonably - yes. A furnace can be installed in a single day. However, if you stumble on a company that boasts a “1-2 hour” furnace installation or prioritizes the speed of the installation over every other aspect, then run. A proper installation is critical for the efficient operation of the furnace and not to mention the safety of everyone in the household or building. Always hire a licensed and experienced technician to do the job, as your furnace is not only an integral part of your home or building’s heating and cooling system, but severe faults or issues can compromise the health of the building’s occupants.

How difficult is it to install a furnace?

Again, this answer really does depend. It depends on the home or building, the complexity of the existing system (and the complexity of the system being installed), climate conditions, any zoning that is required, and so on. Installing a furnace, however, is a moderately challenging task (that can sometimes scale into “highly complex” with certain buildings) and is best accomplished by individuals who have a solid understanding of HVAC systems - not the homeowners looking to cut some costs on installation.

Your furnace installation should be done by a highly trained, licensed, and qualified technician who understands the local infrastructure, local building codes, safety regulations, and experience required to do the job right. Without adequate knowledge, mistakes can result in safety hazards, inefficient operation, poor indoor air quality, and potential damage to the HVAC system. A licensed HVAC technician is the route to a job well done.

Are you considering a new furnace for your home? If so, Limcan Certified is your go-to solution for high-quality installations! We’re available 24/7/365 days a year! That includes after-hours, weekends, and holidays at no additional cost to you! We’ll even install a new heating system in your home the same day or next if you’re ever without a working unit during a cold snap! Furthermore, if you want to save money on your new furnace, make sure to ask us about our current discounts and financing options!

Call and schedule a consultation appointment with a home comfort advisor today! All consultations come with a complimentary new system purchase quote!