When it comes to furnace installation, a lot can go wrong if the job isn’t handled by trained and experienced professionals. And as simple as a heating installation may seem on the surface, even small mistakes can lead to higher energy bills, frequent breakdowns, poor indoor comfort, and even safety hazards. That’s why we always tell homeowners: a high-quality furnace is only as good as the quality of its installation.
At Chicago Comfort HVAC Services, we’ve seen everything—from DIY furnace installation attempts gone sideways to improperly sized systems installed by inexperienced local furnace installers. So today, we’re breaking down the 10 most common furnace installation mistakes and, most importantly, how you can avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size Furnace
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is installing a furnace that’s either too large or too small for their home. An oversized unit short-cycles (turns on and off frequently), while an undersized furnace struggles to heat your home.
How to avoid it:
Ask your HVAC contractor to perform a proper load calculation. At Chicago Comfort HVAC Services, we use industry-standard Manual J calculations to size every home furnace installation correctly—whether it’s a gas, electric, or oil furnace.
2. Poor Venting and Airflow Setup
A furnace needs proper ventilation to run safely and efficiently. Incorrect venting can cause carbon monoxide buildup or poor system performance.
Avoid it by:
Hiring licensed experts who understand gas furnace installation codes and venting requirements. Never cut corners here—your safety depends on it.
3. Improper Ductwork Design or Connection
Even the best furnace won’t perform well with poorly designed or leaky ductwork. Incorrect duct sizing can lead to uneven heating, noisy airflow, and wasted energy.
What to do instead:
Have your ducts inspected during your heating installation. If needed, we can redesign or seal the ductwork to ensure proper airflow.
4. Incorrect Thermostat Placement
Placing the thermostat near sunlight, vents, or drafts causes inaccurate readings, leading to constant cycling and uneven temperatures.
Avoid this by:
Installing the thermostat in a neutral, central location away from direct heat sources or cold spots.
5. Skipping the Air Filter Setup (Or Using the Wrong Filter)
Using the wrong filter size or installing a furnace without a filter setup in place can reduce airflow and shorten the lifespan of your system.
Solution:
Always use the manufacturer-recommended filter size—and replace it regularly.
6. Faulty Electrical or Gas Connections
Whether it’s gas furnace installation or electric heating system installation, mistakes in wiring or gas line connections can put your home at risk.
Avoid it by:
Never attempting DIY furnace installation when gas or electrical work is involved. Professional installation keeps your home safe and code-compliant.
7. Ignoring Local Building Codes
Every city, including Chicago, has specific codes for heating system installation, especially for venting, electrical connections, and combustion safety.
Avoid this:
Choose licensed HVAC contractors near you who understand local requirements and obtain permits when needed.
8. Not Leveling the Furnace Unit
A furnace that isn’t level can cause premature wear, increased noise, or even drainage issues with high-efficiency models.
Fix it by:
Ensuring the installation surface is level and stable. Our technicians always double-check this step before finalizing your installation.
9. Using Old Parts With a New Furnace
Installing a new high-efficiency furnace but connecting it to outdated components—like old ductwork, vent pipes, or a worn-out thermostat—can lead to performance issues.
How to avoid it:
Let professionals verify which parts should be upgraded, especially when installing Lennox, Trane, Carrier, or Goodman furnaces. A modern furnace must work with modern components.
10. Hiring the Wrong HVAC Company
This might be the most important mistake of all. Not every contractor has the experience to handle central heating installation, furnace replacement, or complex setups for older homes.
Avoid this by:
Choosing a trusted, established company like Chicago Comfort HVAC Services—one known for quality workmanship, transparent pricing, and long-term support.
When Should You Replace Your Furnace?
If your system is over 15 years old, running inefficiently, or needing frequent furnace repairs, it might be time to upgrade. Signs you need a new furnace include:
- Uneven heating across your home
- Rising monthly energy bills
- Frequent cycling
- Yellow furnace flame
- Strange smells or noises
A new high-efficiency furnace installation not only saves energy but also provides more consistent comfort throughout winter.
How Much Does Furnace Installation Cost?
The cost of furnace installation varies depending on system type, home size, and complexity. Most homeowners ask: How much does furnace installation cost?—and the truth is that prices can range widely based on your needs.
At Chicago Comfort HVAC Services, we provide free, transparent estimates so you know exactly what to expect during furnace installation without surprises.
Why Professional Installation Matters
When you choose professional residential furnace installation, you benefit from:
- Better performance
- Longer system lifespan
- Safer operation
- Lower energy bills
- Code-compliant installation
- Faster install times (including emergency furnace installation)
DIY furnace installation vs professional? It’s not even close—especially when dealing with gas lines, electrical wiring, and ventilation.
Chicago Comfort HVAC Services: Your Trusted Furnace Installation Experts
If you’ve been searching for furnace installation near me or the best furnace installation companies in Chicago, you’re in the right place. Our team handles everything—from new furnace setups to furnace replacement, ductwork upgrades, and full heating and cooling services designed to keep your home comfortable year-round.
