Many homeowners use electric furnaces for a variety of reasons. They may not have been able to run gas lines into their home at the time of their last furnace installation, or they may have enjoyed low electricity prices in the past, for example. As natural gas companies have expanded their service areas, many homeowners are now making the switch to gas furnaces. If you want to replace your old electric furnace with a gas furnace, your HVAC contractor will have to take a few extra steps during your furnace installation, including the following.

Choosing a Gas Furnace

Since your new furnace isn't necessarily an exact equivalent model to your old electric furnace, choosing a new gas furnace may be slightly complicated. Your HVAC contractor will help you determine your home's heating needs based on your old furnace's performance and any remodeling projects you have undertaken that have increased the square footage of your home. Gas furnaces tend to run more efficiently and heat homes more quickly than electric furnaces, so don't be surprised if you need a smaller or less powerful gas furnace than your old electric furnace. Luckily, this makes fitting a gas furnace into your home easy.

Gas Line Installation

Some HVAC contractors are able to install gas lines, but depending on the gas company you have chosen to work with, you may need to work with the gas company directly for a line installation or extension. If you already have a gas line that runs into your home, your contractor may be able to branch off of that line for a quicker and cheaper installation. If your new furnace will be your first appliance that runs on natural gas, you should communicate with your prospective gas company before installation in case they have any specific requirements for the installation. 

Gas Furnace Installation

Once your gas line is installed and your gas furnace has arrived, your HVAC contractor will install your new furnace for you. Most gas furnaces require both a gas line and an electrical outlet to be installed. If you already had an electric furnace, you likely have the right outlet for your new gas furnace. Your contractor will connect your furnace to your air ducts or radiant heat system and to any appropriate ventilation pipes and a condensation drain. Then, they will connect it to the gas line and electrical outlet. They will test the furnace to make sure it works properly so it is ready for action as soon as it is needed.