Heating System Installation: Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Would you like to install or replace your heating system to improve your home comfort and energy efficiency?

Whether you opt for a heat pump or another heating system, a good understanding of the key considerations and common mistakes will help you avoid potential performance issues that could lead to additional costs or pose a risk to your safety.

Here is a guide to the points to consider and common mistakes to avoid before choosing your system and installer.

1. Choosing a System That Doesn’t Suit Your Home

One of the most common mistakes is selecting equipment that doesn’t match your home’s actual needs. An oversized system will waste energy, while an undersized unit will struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

It is essential to request an assessment from a qualified professional. They’ll consider your home’s square footage, insulation, number of windows, and usage habits to recommend the ideal system. This step is especially important for heat pump installations, as the capacity must be perfectly matched to maximize efficiency.

2. Skimping on Installation Quality

Even the best heating system won’t perform well if it’s poorly installed. Incorrect setup can cause air leaks, excessive noise, or premature wear on components.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Hire certified technicians for your installation. They’ll follow current standards and ensure every connection is sealed and secure. Avoid DIY installations or hiring unqualified individuals, as this can void the manufacturer’s warranty.

An installer who has been in business for several years will also be a guarantee of durability, as they will be more likely to support you throughout the lifetime of your system, providing maintenance and any necessary repairs.

3. Ignoring Ventilation and Airflow

A high-performing system needs proper air distribution. If the ducts are blocked or incorrectly sized, some rooms will stay cold while others overheat.

In addition, the clearance around your appliances, such as your wall-mounted heat pump, must be respected according to each manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal operation. For a heat pump, it is also important to provide a clear outdoor location so that the unit can operate without obstruction.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Before installation, check the condition of your ducts and make sure they’re clean and well insulated. For heat pumps, also ensure the outdoor unit has a clear, unobstructed space to operate efficiently.

4. Poor Home Insulation

Installing a heating system without improving insulation is a costly mistake. A poorly insulated house will quickly lose heat, which can lead to higher energy bills.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Inspect your walls, roof, and windows before investing in new equipment. Proper insulation reduces energy consumption and extends the life of your system.

5. Forgetting Regular Maintenance

Once the system is installed, some homeowners neglect maintenance. Dirty filters, worn parts, and incorrect settings can lower efficiency and increase your energy bill.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Schedule annual inspections with a professional. For heat pumps, clean the filters regularly and keep the outdoor unit free of debris. Preventive maintenance costs significantly less than dealing with major breakdowns.

6. Overlooking Climate Conditions

In Quebec and the rest of Canada, winters are harsh. Some systems designed for milder climates are not powerful enough to heat a house in our extreme temperatures.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Choose a system built to perform efficiently even in freezing temperatures. Modern heat pumps often include technology that maintains good performance at temperatures below -25 °C but always confirm this feature before buying. *

* You remain responsible for applying for grants. Installers can only advise you.

7. Poor Placement Planning

The location of the indoor and outdoor units affects performance. A heat pump installed too close to a heat source or in a poorly ventilated area can overheat or freeze.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

With your installer, choose a strategic location, away from obstacles and areas with high humidity. For the outdoor unit, ensure that it is raised to prevent snow accumulation or possible water accumulation (flooding, etc.).

Your Comfort Starts with a Flawless Installation

Installing a heating system is a significant investment that requires careful planning and meticulous selection of your contractor. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure not only a comfortable home but also long-term energy savings. Whether you choose a heat pump or another system, a flawless installation starts with selecting the right system, professional installation, and regular maintenance.

Have questions or you would like a quote for your project? Contact Confort Expert today to benefit from our certified technicians’ expertise and find the perfect solution for your home.