Jake Lawson here. You’ve picked your high-efficiency AC and gas furnace combo, hopefully with R-32 refrigerant, and now you’re gearing up for installation. Great move—but here’s the part most folks underestimate: a good install makes or breaks your system.
Even the best system on the market won’t live up to its potential if it’s installed poorly. So let’s walk through what a smooth, successful HVAC installation really looks like—and how you can set yourself up for long-term comfort and savings from day one.
📝 Step 1: Permits, Paperwork & Prep
Before a tech ever touches a wrench, there’s groundwork to do:
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Permits: Your contractor should pull the necessary city or county permits. If they don’t mention it—red flag.
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Load calculation (Manual J): This isn’t optional. It’s a must for choosing the right system size.
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Ductwork inspection: If your ducts leak or aren’t sized properly, your brand-new system will waste energy.
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Site prep: Clear the install area—inside and out. That means no storage boxes blocking the furnace or debris near your outdoor condenser pad.
✅ Pro Tip: Ask your installer for their Manual J results and make sure it aligns with your home’s square footage, insulation, and climate zone.
🧰 Step 2: The Installation Day
Here’s what typically goes down on install day:
| Task | What It Involves |
|---|---|
| Removal | Safely disconnecting and hauling off the old unit |
| Placement | Installing the furnace and outdoor AC on a level pad |
| Line set & wiring | Connecting refrigerant lines and running electrical |
| Thermostat | Installing and calibrating a new smart or programmable thermostat |
| Ductwork tweaks | Sealing or adjusting existing ducts for proper airflow |
| Charging system | Adding the correct amount of R-32 refrigerant |
| Test & tune | System run-up, pressure checks, and airflow balancing |
Expect 1–2 days for a full install. Complex jobs (retrofits, ductwork changes) may take longer.
⚠️ Step 3: Safety Checks and R-32-Specific Practices
R-32 systems are slightly different from old-school R-410A setups. Your contractor should:
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Use R-32 rated gauges, tools, and leak detectors
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Confirm proper ventilation during charging due to mild flammability
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Label the system correctly to meet local code
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Install in accordance with UL 60335-2-40 and any applicable A2L refrigerant codes
It’s not rocket science—but it’s not plug-and-play either. Make sure your installer is certified for A2L refrigerants and familiar with the latest EPA guidelines.
✅ Step 4: Final Walkthrough and What to Ask
Don’t just let the installer pack up and leave. Take a few minutes to:
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Walk through the thermostat operation
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Ask for a copy of the start-up checklist
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Confirm your equipment matches the quote
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Make sure you get warranty paperwork and registration info
💡 Ask this before they leave:
"What do I need to do for maintenance, and when should I schedule the first service check?"
📆 What Comes Next?
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Register your system within 60–90 days for warranty coverage.
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Schedule a checkup after 12 months—especially important for R-32 systems to confirm refrigerant levels and catch any early issues.
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Watch your energy bills. A good install should drop those numbers noticeably.
🧠 What Can Go Wrong (and How to Avoid It)
Here are common pitfalls and how to dodge them:
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Undersized/oversized system | Always demand a Manual J load calculation |
| Skipped duct sealing | Ask for blower door test or duct leakage test |
| Refrigerant undercharge | Insist on weighing in the R-32 charge per manufacturer spec |
| No permits | Ask to see the permit number and inspection plan |
| Untrained installer | Choose a certified pro who understands R-32 and A2L handling |
🛠️ Installer Checklist
Before you hire, ask if they:
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Are EPA 608 certified
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Have experience with R-32
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Provide a labor warranty (1 year is common)
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Offer free second-year inspections or tune-ups
🔚 Final Take from Jake
When it comes to HVAC installation, it’s not about getting it done—it’s about getting it done right. A well-installed R-32 system should last 15 years or more, run quietly, and cut your energy costs right out of the gate.
If you’re buying from The Furnace Outlet, you’re already starting with the right equipment. Don’t let a poor install ruin it. Be informed, ask the right questions, and make sure the job is done to code—and to your expectations.
