Furnace Installation

As a general rule of thumb, a furnace should last between 15 and 20 years. There are a few things that will affect how long your furnace will last. For example, it is critical to have a properly sized system for your home. Shorter cycles put more strain on a furnace's components, so if the system is bigger than necessary, it will switch on and off too rapidly. Poor installation can also have a negative impact. Poorly constructed, scaled or sealed ducting has an effect on airflow. In addition, not doing routine maintenance and the conditions the furnace lives in all combine to determine the lifespan of a furnace. A nice clean, dry basement is a better environment than a crawl space with a dirt floor and  a lot of moisture to rust out the system.

A new system cost can vary greatly depending on the difficulty of the job and the type of system you want and need. A furnace is like anything else: they can start at $3500 for simplest, basic install. But you can add options, features and higher efficiencies, which will all drive the total price tag up. Your HVAC specialist will evaluate your needs and give you an accurate price quote.

Over time, the top furnace brands will deliver more consistent performance and help you save money on energy costs while keeping your home warm. Here are the top four manufacturing brands that should give you peace of mind and last 15-20 years. Anything else may only last 10-15 years. 

• Lennox is one of the oldest furnace manufacturers in the United States. They sell top-of-the-line central air conditioners and whole-house furnaces.
• York is one of the most well-known heating and cooling brands. It is recognized for producing tiny home furnace heating systems and is one of the leading air conditioning and heating producers.
• Carrier air conditioners and furnace systems are known for their great quality because of their lengthy history.

Trane gas furnaces are among the best in the business when it comes to heating and cooling. Trane has been a trusted brand since the late 1800s.

Determining the right size furnace for your home involves considering things like square footage, insulation, climate, and layout. A furnace that's too small won't adequately heat your space, while one that's too large may cycle on and off frequently, leading to inefficiency and wear. Consulting with HVAC professionals who can perform load calculations based on your home's specific requirements ensures you select the appropriately sized furnace for optimal comfort and efficiency.

Yes, in Wisconsin, you typically need to obtain a permit for furnace installation. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Local Regulations: Permit requirements can vary by municipality, so it's essential to check with your local building department.
• Types of Permits: You may need permits for both the installation of the furnace and any modifications to ductwork or gas lines.
• Professional Contractors: If you hire a licensed HVAC contractor, they often handle the permit process on your behalf.
• Inspections: After installation, an inspection may be required to ensure the system meets safety and building codes.

Always verify local requirements to ensure compliance and avoid potential fines.