When your furnace starts making strange noises or stops heating your home effectively, one of the first questions you might ask is: “How long does it take to install a furnace?”
Understanding the timeline for furnace installation helps you plan accordingly and ensures your Pittsburgh home stays warm.
Why Furnace Installation Time Matters for Pittsburgh Homeowners
Pittsburgh winters can be brutal, with temperatures dropping below freezing from December through February. The last thing you want is to be without heat. That’s why understanding how long a furnace install takes (and planning ahead) is important for every homeowner in the area.
Schultheis Bros. has been keeping Pittsburgh homes warm for over 75 years, and we’ve seen how proper planning makes all the difference.
How Long Does Furnace Installation Typically Take?
Average Furnace Installation Time (4-8 hours)
Most furnace installations can be completed within a single day, though the exact timeframe varies. Here’s what you can generally expect:
Basic installations typically take around 4 hours when replacing a similar unit in an accessible location with existing ductwork in good condition. These straightforward replacements involve removing your old furnace and installing a new one.
More complex installations may require 6 to 8 hours or longer. These situations arise when upgrading to a different system type, modifying ductwork, adding new components like humidifiers or air purifiers, or working in challenging spaces.
Typically, for complete furnace installation, we will design a custom heating and cooling system that meets your unique needs. Our Comfort Consultants will assess your home or business to help design your system.
What Happens During a Furnace Installation?
Understanding the installation process helps you know what to expect on installation day.
1. Pre-Installation Evaluation
Before any work begins, our knowledgeable consultants will guide you on picking the equipment that is best for your home while working with your brand preference.
2. Removal of the Old Furnace
Removing your old furnace can take 1 to 2 hours. We follow proper disposal procedures and ensure all safety protocols are met.
3. Installing the New Furnace Unit
This is the most time-intensive phase, usually taking 2 to 4 hours. Our highly-trained technicians undergo continuous in-house training to ensure they are always up-to-date. They will securely mount the new unit, connect all electrical wiring according to manufacturer specifications and local codes, and establish safe gas line connections.
4. System Testing & Safety Checks
Once installation is complete, we conduct testing that includes verifying proper venting to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, performing carbon monoxide checks throughout your home, and providing a complete walkthrough with you to explain your new system’s operation and maintenance requirements.
To keep your furnace running efficiently for years to come, explore our furnace maintenance services.
Factors That Affect Furnace Installation Time
Your Home’s Layout & Accessibility
The location of your furnace can impact installation time.
Furnaces installed in open basement areas are quickest to replace, while units in cramped crawl spaces, attics, or closets require more time and careful maneuvering. Older Pittsburgh homes with unique architectural features may present additional accessibility challenges.
Condition of Existing Ductwork
If your ductwork is damaged, poorly sealed, or improperly sized, repairs will add time to your installation.
In some cases, significant ductwork updates are necessary to make sure your new furnace works efficiently. In our in-house metal shop, we can design and develop the ideal duct configuration for your system.
How to Prepare for a Smooth Furnace Installation
Help your installation go smoothly by following this checklist:
- Clear the installation area of storage items, boxes, and obstacles.
- Provide clear access to your electrical panel, thermostat location, and basement or utility room.
- Keep pets in a separate, secure area away from the work zone.
- Plan to be home during installation for questions and the final walkthrough.
How Much Does Furnace Installation Cost in Pittsburgh?
Furnace cost and installation varies based on your specific situation.
Several factors impact your final price, including the furnace brand and efficiency rating, existing ductwork condition, your home’s heating requirements, etc.
Professional installation is so important. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards, voided warranties, inefficient operation, and premature system failure. Many homeowners don’t realize that a DIY or unlicensed installation often costs more in the long run due to repairs and reduced efficiency.
At Schultheis Bros., we offer transparent pricing and financing options to make your investment more manageable. If you are interested in financing with us, we offer financing options with approved credit for all customers who have a new installation performed. Visit our Payment Options page to learn more.
Why Pittsburgh Homeowners Choose Schultheis Bros. for Furnace Installation
When you choose Schultheis Bros. for your furnace installation, you’re partnering with a company that’s been a trusted name in Pittsburgh for over 75 years. As a third-generation, family-owned business, we treat every home like it’s our own.
Our highly trained, certified technicians bring decades of combined experience to every installation. We’ve completed thousands of furnace installations across the greater Pittsburgh area, and our reputation for integrity and transparency speaks for itself.
We explain every step of the process, provide honest recommendations, and stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties.
Ready for a New Furnace?
Don’t let another Pittsburgh winter catch you unprepared. Schultheis Bros. has the expertise and experience to ensure your furnace installation is completed professionally and efficiently.
Our team is ready to answer your questions, provide a detailed estimate, and schedule your installation at a time that works for you. Contact us today, or explore all our heating options.
Stay warm, Pittsburgh! Schultheis Bros. has you covered.
