What Are the Pros and Cons of Installing a Furnace in the Attic?

Installing a Furnace in the Attic? The Pros and Cons

Are you thinking about installing a furnace in your attic? While most people stick their furnaces in the usual spots like basements, garages, or utility closets, we’re seeing more folks consider the attic as an option here in Memphis. This setup can be practical, but it requires careful consideration of space, efficiency, and proper maintenance.

Choosing to put a furnace in your attic depends on multiple factors, including your home’s layout, local climate, and specific heating needs. At Mister Greenway Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re ready to send a licensed tech to your home in under 30 minutes. We can also help you explore your options for furnace installation in Memphis, TN.

Pros of Installing a Furnace in the Attic

You may wonder why anyone would want their furnace up in the attic? There are some pretty cool benefits.

1. More Storage Space Downstairs

An attic furnace frees up a ton of space on the ground floor. It’s perfect if you’re tired of your furnace hogging that valuable storage space in your basement, closet, or utility room.

This arrangement helps you maintain the functionality and aesthetic appeal of living areas, particularly if you have a smaller home where every square foot matters.

2. Lowered Risk of Flooding

If you live in an area prone to flooding, keeping your furnace high and dry in the attic can be a smart move.

This placement reduces the risk of costly water damage to your furnace. However, be mindful of other potential dangers to protect the system, like water sneaking from roof leaks.

3. Lower Cost of Installation

Attic installations can actually be cheaper, too, since venting through the roof is often more straightforward than other setups (less material and labor costs).

This is especially beneficial for new installations. If you’re moving an existing furnace to the attic, the cost difference may vary depending on the condition of your attic and the existing duct system.

4. Ease of Installation

Installing a furnace in the attic can be simple, especially if the attic is finished or semi-finished. Modern furnace designs make attic installations more feasible than ever before, even for homes with unconventional layouts.

If your house lacks a basement or limited ground-floor space, an attic furnace offers a practical solution. However, proper installation is key to avoid issues like poor airflow or inefficient heating.

We recommend getting the help of a professional technician to guarantee that your the system works safe and sound.

Cons of Installing a Furnace in the Attic

But let’s be real. It’s not all sunshine and roses. Having your furnace in the attic comes with its own set of challenges.

1. Problems May Go Unnoticed

Think about it: when was the last time you popped up to your attic to check on things? That’s exactly the problem. Out of sight often means out of mind.

Attic furnaces can suffer from neglect issues like weird noises or small leaks that might go unnoticed until they become bigger headaches.

3. Lower Overall Energy Efficiency

Here’s something most people don’t consider: heating systems in the attic face challenges with convection. Hot air naturally rises, so your furnace has to work harder to push heat down into your living space, which can bump up those energy bills.

Also, you are more likely to experience heat loss through ductwork and connections in attic setups, further reducing overall efficiency.

2. Increased Chance of Damage to Ductwork

Attic spaces leave ductwork exposed to extreme temperatures, which can weaken materials over time. Heat can cause ducts to expand and contract, potentially creating leaks or dropping efficiency.

Yes, you can count on proper insulation and high-quality materials to reduce these risks. Still, you also need to inspect the area regularly inspections to make sure they are in good shape.

4. Potential Fire Hazard

Safety is another big concern. Heat-generating appliances in attic spaces pose fire risks, especially if your home has older wiring or poor ventilation. An attic installation needs proper ventilation and careful attention to fire safety codes. Needless to say, we recommend professional installation to minimize these risks.

When Does an Attic Furnace Make Sense?

Installing a furnace in the attic makes sense in specific scenarios:

• You’re adding a second story or expanding your home.
• You don’t have a basement or are just desperate for more living space downstairs.
• Noise or space constraints are priorities in your decision-making.

If any of these options apply to your situation, it might be worth considering. But here’s the key: whatever you decide, make sure you’re working with professionals who know what they’re doing. They can help you pick the right high-efficiency model and set up a maintenance schedule to keep everything running smoothly.

Also, keep in mind that attic furnace installations must comply with local or International Mechanical Code (IMC) standards. You’ll need enough space up there, too. We’re talking at least 30 inches high and 22 inches wide, with enough room for maintenance folks to get in and do their job.

Pro tip: Proper ventilation and insulation are additional requirements to maintain safe and efficient operation.

Things to Consider When Installing a Furnace in the Attic

Want our advice? If you’re seriously considering an attic furnace, get an expert to take a look at your specific situation. Every home is different, and what works for your neighbor might not be the best choice for you. Here are some points to consider:

1. Select a High-Efficiency Furnace: Choose a model that can make up for the energy losses associated with the attic location. High-efficiency systems can reduce utility costs over time.
2. Schedule Regular TLC: Frequent cleaning and inspections help maintain good performance and stretch the lifespan of your furnace.
3. Enroll in a Preventative Maintenance Program: Professional programs offer peace of mind by keeping your furnace working efficiently year-round.

The most important thing is to end up with a reliable heating system that maintains your home cozy without breaking the bank.

Need Help Installing a Furnace in the Attic? Mister Greenway

Installing a furnace in the attic offers notable advantages, like saving space and reducing flood risks. However, it also comes with challenges like energy inefficiency and maintenance concerns. Your decision should factor in your home’s unique characteristics and input from an HVAC professional.

Remember, proper installation and regular maintenance are extremely important (even more so with attic furnaces). If you’re in the Memphis area and want to explore this option, we’d be happy to have one of our techs come by and give you their professional take on what would work best for your home.

By the way, I’m talking about all this from my experience at Mister Greenway Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We provide seamless furnace installation services and have installed plenty of attic furnaces in Memphis homes. We’re always happy to help folks figure out the best heating solution for their situation.