Ellettsville HVAC: Installing a Home Heating System (8 Steps)

Estimated Read Time: 9 minutes

Thinking about how to install central heating in your home? This guide walks you through the process step by step so you can plan with confidence, avoid safety risks, and know when to call in a pro. Bloomington winters can swing fast near Lake Monroe, so a right‑sized system and tight ducts matter. Bonus: limited‑time coupons included below.

Before You Start: Safety, Permits, and Realistic Scope

Central heating touches gas, electricity, combustion air, and venting. A mistake can create fire hazards or carbon monoxide risks. If your project involves gas piping, flue work, or new electrical circuits, plan to use a licensed contractor. Many jurisdictions require permits and inspections for furnace or heat pump installs. Permits protect your warranty and insurance.

Clarify your goals:

1. Comfort and airflow in every room.
2. Lower utility bills through high efficiency.
3. Indoor air quality improvements.

Know what central heating includes. At minimum you need a heat source, distribution, controls, and safe exhaust or condensate handling. In older Bloomington homes near campus or in Elm Heights, narrow chases and finished basements can limit duct routes, so measure twice and consider slim‑duct or heat pump options.

Summers provides repair, tune‑ups, and installations for residential and light commercial heating systems. SOME OF OUR RESIDENTIAL AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL HEATING SERVICES INCLUDE: Gas furnaces; Electric furnaces; Geo thermals; Heat pumps; Maintenance and service; Service plans; Precision tune‑up and professional cleaning.

Step 1: Calculate Heating Load and Size the System

Proper sizing is the foundation. Contractors use Manual J load calculations to estimate BTU needs based on square footage, insulation, windows, infiltration, and local weather. Bloomington’s winter design temps make infiltration and attic insulation big factors. Oversized systems short cycle, waste energy, and wear out faster. Undersized units struggle on the coldest nights.

What to do:

1. Measure each room and note window sizes and orientations.
2. Check insulation levels in attic and walls.
3. Note air leaks at doors, can lights, and rim joists.
4. Use a reputable calculator or hire a pro to run Manual J.

Target a furnace or heat pump with output that matches the calculated load, not just the old nameplate. If you have plans to air‑seal or add insulation soon, factor that in.

Step 2: Choose Your Heat Source

There is no single right answer. Match fuel availability, utility rates, and comfort goals.

1. Gas furnace
2. • Fast heat, works well in deep cold.
   • Requires gas piping, flue, and combustion air.
   • High‑efficiency condensing models may need PVC venting and condensate drains.
2. Electric furnace
3. • Simple install, low upfront cost.
   • Higher operating cost unless paired with low electric rates.
3. Heat pump
4. • Efficient heating and cooling in one system.
   • Modern cold‑climate units work well in Southern Indiana. Can be paired with a gas furnace for dual fuel.
4. Geothermal
5. • Highest efficiency, uses ground loops.
   • Higher upfront cost and site requirements.

We guide homeowners through installation, replacement, repair and diagnostics, and the choice between electric vs. gas furnaces, including installation costs, safety, efficiency, lifespan, and maintenance needs.

Step 3: Plan Ductwork and Airflow

Even the best furnace fails if ducts are leaky or undersized. Aim for balanced supply and return in each major area. Bedrooms often need dedicated returns or jump ducts to prevent pressure imbalances. In limestone‑foundation basements around Bloomington, low joist bays can pinch duct runs. Use proper sizing charts and keep turns gentle.

Best practices:

1. Seal every joint with mastic.
2. Insulate ducts in unconditioned spaces.
3. Provide adequate returns to reduce noise and improve IAQ.
4. Consider a media filter cabinet for better air filtration.

Related services that boost heating performance include duct sealing and duct cleaning. If your existing ducts are dirty or restrictive, address that now to protect a new furnace or heat pump.

Step 4: Select Thermostats and Controls

Controls have a big impact on comfort and efficiency. Smart thermostats provide schedule learning, remote access, and usage reports. For heat pumps, choose a thermostat that supports balance points and auxiliary heat lockout. For multi‑stage furnaces, select controls that modulate stages for even comfort. We install smart thermostats and integrate with zoning where needed.

Step 5: Site Prep, Clearances, and Venting

Plan equipment placement before delivery.

1. Furnace in a utility room: verify service clearances on all sides.
2. Combustion air: provide adequate openings to the space or outdoors per code.
3. Flue: route metal or PVC venting per manufacturer tables. Maintain slopes and termination clearances.
4. Condensate: trap and drain to an approved location. Protect drains from freezing.
5. Outdoor heat pump: set on a level pad, elevate above snow line, and clear shrubs.

A clean, level install prevents vibration, noise, and premature wear. Local codes and manufacturer instructions take priority.

Step 6: Install Ducting, Vents, and Returns

Lay out trunks and branches to minimize friction and noise. Support ducts every 4 to 6 feet. Use radius elbows instead of sharp turns. At rooms, set registers for throw and diffusion, not just grille looks.

Quality control checklist:

1. Seal with mastic, not just tape.
2. Pressure test for leaks.
3. Size returns generously to keep static pressure low.
4. Install a filter cabinet that is easy to access.

If your home has older sheet metal with visible gaps, a quick sealing upgrade can raise delivered heat and cut bills. Our team offers duct sealing, duct cleaning, thermostat installation, and whole HVAC upgrades to ENERGY STAR rated equipment.

Step 7: Set Equipment and Make Safe Connections

With ducts in place, set the air handler or furnace and connect services.

1. Gas line: leak test, install sediment trap, and size piping correctly.
2. Electrical: dedicated circuit, proper breaker, and equipment disconnect.
3. Refrigerant lines for heat pumps: follow torque specs and nitrogen purge during brazing.
4. Condensate: add cleanout, trap, and overflow protection.
5. Flue: maintain manufacturer vent length limits and termination rules.

Use a manometer to verify gas pressure and a meter to confirm voltage and polarity. Keep wiring tidy for future service. Our trucks come fully stocked for fast service so we can resolve surprises on the first visit.

Step 8: Commissioning and Safety Checks

Commissioning protects your investment. Skipping these steps leads to callbacks and high bills.

A furnace tune‑up usually includes: Tightening electrical connections; Adjusting gas pressure; Testing the ignition system; Replacing filters; Inspecting the fan belt; Lubricating moving parts; Testing carbon monoxide levels; Cleaning the interior and exterior; Calibrating the thermostat.

For heat pumps, add superheat and subcool checks, defrost cycle verification, and airflow measurement across the coil. Test temperature rise through the furnace and confirm static pressure against the blower chart. Install carbon monoxide alarms on every floor. Record readings for your warranty file.

Maintenance Plans, Warranties, and Long‑Term Savings

Annual inspections catch small issues before winter. We recommend having your heating system inspected every year, before the colder months roll in. This aligns with manufacturer warranty requirements and keeps efficiency high.

Our protections:

• We offer a 10‑year warranty on labor for heating equipment. We also offer up to a lifetime unit replacement warranty on equipment that suffers defects. Additionally, we guarantee a one‑year labor and manufacturer warranty on any parts we install.
• Preventive programs and service plans keep your system tuned and documented.
• Our Furnace Inspection - No Breakdown Guarantee gives peace of mind before peak season.

High‑efficiency replacements can lower bills and may qualify you for state incentives and rebates. Many Bloomington homeowners see improved comfort after duct sealing and installing modern variable‑speed systems.

DIY vs Pro: How to Decide

You can handle simple tasks like filter changes, thermostat programming, and basic duct sealing. Installation that involves gas, flue routing, refrigerant handling, or new circuits should be done by licensed techs. Safety, code compliance, and warranty coverage are at stake. If time is short or your home has tight chases or mixed fuel types, a pro install will be faster and safer.

Local Insight: Rebates, Homes, and Weather in the Bloomington Area

Older homes in Prospect Hill and McDoel often have small mechanical rooms and outdated returns. Plan compact equipment or duct redesigns. Newer builds near Ellettsville may support zoned systems from day one. Winters can swing from damp 40s to single‑digit cold, which favors variable‑speed furnaces or cold‑climate heat pumps. Ask about high‑efficiency models that may qualify for state incentives and rebates, and pair them with smart thermostats for added savings.

Special Offers for Bloomington Homeowners

• Furnace Inspection - No Breakdown Guarantee. Only $69 this month. Book online or call (812) 269-5994 and mention the online special.
• Free service call with any paid heating repair. Call (812) 269-5994 to schedule and mention the free service call offer.

Need help choosing, installing, or tuning your system? Visit https://www.summersphc.com/bloomington/ and schedule today.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"Tom S. helped us choose a heating/AC system that fit our needs and budget... David B. and assistant did a thorough job of installing our heating AND A/C system."
–Andrew S., Heating & A/C Installation

"A new furnace, a/c unit and water heater were installed and up and running in under seven hours. I'm very happy with my new system and highly recommend Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling."
–Carol M., Furnace & A/C Install

"We are extremely pleased with our new high-efficiency heat pump... electricity usage has decreased significantly... Would highly recommend."
–Mark C., Heat Pump Replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a central heating installation take?

Most straightforward replacements finish in 1 day. Duct redesigns, heat pump line sets, or new flue routes can extend to 2 to 3 days.

What size furnace or heat pump do I need?

Size is based on a Manual J load calculation. It considers square footage, insulation, windows, and local weather. Avoid guessing by old equipment size.

Do I need new ducts for a new system?

Not always. If ducts are leaky, undersized, or uninsulated, you will benefit from sealing, resizing, or insulating to reach design airflow and comfort.

Are permits required for furnace installation?

Yes in most areas. Work that involves gas, venting, or electrical circuits typically requires permits and inspections to protect safety and warranty.

How often should I service my heating system?

Annually. Have your system inspected and tuned before cold weather. This maintains efficiency and meets many manufacturer warranty terms.

Key Takeaways

A safe, efficient central heating install follows the right steps: accurate sizing, thoughtful duct design, careful equipment placement, quality connections, and thorough commissioning. If you are wondering how to install central heating in Bloomington, plan now to beat the first cold snap and lock in rebates.

Ready to Get Comfortable?

Call Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling at (812) 269-5994 or schedule at https://www.summersphc.com/bloomington/. Mention our $69 Furnace Inspection - No Breakdown Guarantee or the Free Service Call with any paid heating repair. 24/7 Hour Emergency Heating Service available.

Call, Schedule, or Chat Today

• Phone: (812) 269-5994
• Web: https://www.summersphc.com/bloomington/
• Active coupons: $69 Furnace Inspection - No Breakdown Guarantee; Free service call with any paid heating repair

Looking for fast heat, lower bills, and stronger warranties? Get a same day estimate and stay warm tonight.

About Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling

Serving Bloomington and surrounding towns since 1969, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling delivers same day service with licensed, background‑checked technicians. We provide upfront pricing, flexible financing, and strong protections, including a 10‑year labor warranty on heating equipment and a one‑year labor and manufacturer warranty on parts we install. Our trucks arrive fully stocked for fast service, and we stand behind tune‑ups with a No Breakdown Guarantee. From gas furnaces to heat pumps, we install high‑efficiency systems that can qualify for state rebates, and we’re available 24/7 for emergencies.