What to expect when replacing your furnace or heat pump

Replacing a furnace or a heat pump is a big decision, and it is easier when you know what the process looks like from start to finish. This guide follows a typical project in order: the estimate, choosing the equipment, rebates and financing, installation day and the service that follows. Every home is different, so your project may vary in the details, but the general shape is the same.

Step one: the estimate

The process starts with a free estimate. A JCD technician visits your home to assess it and to understand what you need from your heating and cooling. Expect to talk about:

• The equipment you have now, and how it has been performing
• Which rooms are comfortable and which are not
• Your ductwork and the space where the equipment sits
• What matters most to you: lower running costs, added cooling, quieter operation or dependable heat

Bring any service reports or invoices you have kept, though you do not need them. The purpose of the visit is for us to look at your home as it actually is, so that the recommendation fits it, and for you to ask any questions you have. You should leave with a clear written estimate that you can review at your own pace, with no pressure to decide on the spot.

Step two: choosing the equipment

Once we have assessed your home, we go over the options with you. As a Lennox dealer, we can walk you through the range and explain the differences in plain terms. A few points come up often.

Furnace. A new furnace is a straightforward like-for-like replacement for many homes. We will talk about the features that matter to you, such as comfort and noise, and how they fit the layout of your house.

Heat pump. A heat pump provides heating and cooling from one system, and it can lower your heating costs. Cold-climate models operate down to -30°C. A central heat pump system keeps a furnace or electric backup, so it works together with your existing heating instead of replacing it entirely. If your home has no ductwork, a ductless system may be worth considering.

Comparing options. If you are unsure between a furnace, a heat pump or a combination, ask us to lay the options side by side. Our pages on furnace replacement and heat pump replacement give more detail on each.

Step three: rebates and financing

Many homeowners want to know whether a rebate applies. Quebec and federal programs may offer rebates on qualifying equipment, and eligibility depends on your home, the equipment and the rules of each program. Our rebates and grants page gives an overview of the programs.

It helps to be clear about who does what:

• You submit the rebate application. The application is made by the customer, since the program deals directly with the homeowner.
• We supply the documents. JCD provides the invoice, equipment information and supporting installation documents.
• The program decides. Each program reviews the application and determines whether it qualifies.

We are glad to explain which documents you will need so that nothing is missing when you apply. If you would rather spread the cost of a project, financing is available through Financeit. You can ask about it during your estimate.

Step four: installation

Once you have chosen your equipment and approved the estimate, we schedule the installation with you. Our work is done by licensed professionals: JCD holds RBQ licence 8108-4964-15, is a CMMTQ member and carries liability insurance.

Here is what installation generally involves:

1. Preparation. We protect the work area and confirm the details of the project with you.
2. Removal. The old equipment is disconnected and removed.
3. Installation. The new equipment is set in place and connected to your ductwork, controls and power.
4. Testing. We start the system and check that it is operating properly.
5. Walkthrough. We show you how to use the new equipment, explain the controls and answer your questions.
6. Clean-up. We leave the area tidy and take away the old equipment.

Installing a heat pump may include a few additional steps, depending on the type of system and the layout of your home. We explain these in advance so that nothing comes as a surprise.

Step five: paperwork and follow-up service

After installation, we give you the documents that go with your new equipment. Keep them somewhere safe: they are useful for your own records and for any rebate application you are submitting.

Regular maintenance is what keeps a new system running well. Our maintenance plans cover scheduled service visits, and we are available if something comes up between visits. Two habits are especially helpful:

• Replace or clean filters as recommended for your equipment.
• Book your seasonal service visits so that your system is checked before the cooling and heating seasons start.

If you ever have a question about your equipment, call us.

Questions worth asking any contractor

Whichever company you choose, these questions will help you compare estimates fairly:

• What exactly is included in the estimate?
• Which equipment is being proposed, and why does it suit my home?
• Which documents will I receive after installation?
• What does follow-up service look like?
• Are you licensed, and are you insured?

We are happy to answer every one of these. In our case: RBQ licence 8108-4964-15, CMMTQ member, liability insurance, and in business since 1994.

Ready to talk it through?

If you are thinking about replacing a furnace or a heat pump, the best first step is a conversation. We will look at your home, answer your questions and give you a clear estimate.

Ask for your free estimate. Call 514-696-4629 or write to info@jcdrefrigeration.com.