Replacing your old furnace is an excellent choice. Newer furnaces are more efficient and can help you save money in the long run. They can also increase the value of your home. If you have made this decision and are preparing for the professionals at Gallagher's Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning in Sacramento, CA, there are a few things that you should have prepared before your scheduled appointment.
Make Sure the Entrance Is Accessible
The first thing you need to do is to make sure the entrance where the furnace will enter the home is free and clear of furniture or other items. It is always a good idea to give the crew plenty of room to maneuver around. This is for both their safety and to help them make sure they do not damage your home or personal items.
Clear the Work Areas
In addition to having the entrance clear, also make sure that there is no furniture or obstructions in the place where the work will take place. This includes making sure that the area in front of all ductwork does not have any furniture or obstacles. Also, have a clear area around your electrical box.
Secure Pets
If you have dogs, cats, ferrets, or any other animal running loose around your home, make sure to put them in a cage or secure area. Even if your animal is friendly and polite around people, the workers are strangers and doing things the animal may not be accustomed to on a normal day. Also, there is a potential that any animal could become frightened and get underfoot, causing an accident or injury. The last thing you want on your homeowner’s insurance is a worker injured by your pet.
Have a Plan for Small Children
If you have small children, make sure you have a plan for keeping them safe. Little ones become curious, and watching out for your children can distract the technician and cause an accident. You want the technician to be able to keep their mind on their job, and you want to know that your little ones are safe. It might be a good time for a babysitter who can be with them the entire time. It is also a good idea to plan for any meals and care that needs to be provided while the installation is taking place.
Plan to Have Your Utilities Off
At some point during the day, you will have to have your electricity shut off for a time. It is a good idea to ask the company before they arrive so that you can plan for the amount of time needed. Be aware that it sometimes might take longer than the estimated time, so leave a little room before you need to have your electricity back on.
Have a Backup Place to Stay
It is seldom needed, but it is always good to have a backup place to stay in case something goes wrong, or something unforeseen should arise. If you have small children or babies, or it is in the middle of winter, it is probably a good idea to try to arrange for them to stay with a relative or friend while the work is being done.
Prepare for Dust
If you have someone who has allergies or sensitivities to dust, it is a good idea to take proper measures to protect them. Installing a furnace involves cutting holes in your walls and stirring up existing dust in the ductwork. Gallagher's Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning is a team of professionals, and we take measures to keep the dust down while our teams work, but some dust will be unavoidable. Our teams always leave the area as good or better than before they arrived.
Explore Thermostat Options
Before the team arrives, make sure they understand what type of thermostat you want to have installed. Smart thermostats and programmable thermostats are excellent options. They allow you to set a schedule, so you can lower the temperature when you are not at home and raise it when you are there. If these options are not discussed at the initial meeting, be sure to call the company and let them know your preferences at least a week or two ahead of time.
Consider an In-Line Air Purifier or Humidifier
Another option to consider before the installation is an in-line air purification system or in-line humidifier. These are excellent options for asthma sufferers and for adding moisture to the air. A little additional humidity makes the house feel warmer and will allow you to be comfortable with your furnace on a lower setting. Installing them when the system is being replaced is the easiest time to do it.
Schedule Enough Time
You or another adult family member should be present during the entire installation process. The workers may need access to areas that are locked, or they may have a question that you need to answer during the installation process. The company can usually give you a good estimate about how long it will take under normal circumstances. You need to be aware that there may be instances where it could take much longer, such as if they discover part of your home needs structural repair of some type. It is always best to plan for extra time rather than have an obligation scheduled where you have to be out of the home during any part of the installation process.
Have Your Ductwork Inspected
If you are only having your furnace replaced and will not be having the ductwork replaced at the same time, you will need to have the ductwork inspected to make sure that everything is in good working order before the crew arrives. Our professionals at Gallagher's Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning will be happy to do that for you before your scheduled installation time. Be sure to ask us when we provide you with an estimate.
Ask Questions and Make Changes Beforehand
The day of the replacement is not the time to ask questions or make changes. Once you receive an estimate from us, we will be happy to discuss any changes that might be necessary, but we do ask that you let us know ahead of time. We will be happy to answer any questions that you have and address any concerns, so feel free to give us a call before the installation date. Our goal is to make the process as easy and hassle-free as possible.
At Gallagher's Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, we are proud to offer high-quality heating installation services in Sacramento, CA, and the surrounding area. In addition to installations, our team provides heating repair and maintenance. We are also available to provide cooling installation, repair, and maintenance and a full range of plumbing services, including water heater installation and repair. Our other offerings include indoor air quality solutions and duct cleaning. We offer specials and financing on approved credit to help you pay for your new HVAC system. Contact Gallagher's Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning today for more information or to set up an appointment.
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