Replacing a furnace isn’t an everyday decision. It affects comfort, safety, and what you pay for heat for years. The right contractor makes the difference between a smooth upgrade and headaches. Because you’re busy, this blog keeps it simple and practical. You’ll know what to ask, what to compare, and what to skip. If you’re planning a gas furnace replacement Rochester MI, the local climate and codes add a few must-checks. However, the steps below work anywhere. Let’s make this easier—and safer—starting today.

Start With Comfort Goals and A Budget

Before you call anyone, define success. Do you want quieter heat, steadier rooms, or lower bills? List your top three goals. Set a realistic budget range, including a small buffer for duct fixes or safety upgrades. Because homes often change over time, note any cold rooms or recent remodels. Share these with contractors. They’ll quote more accurately and choose better equipment. Avoid locking into a brand yet. You’re selecting a pro first, then a system. Meanwhile, keep your schedule in mind. Fast installs are possible, but planning means better options and fewer compromises.

Verify Licenses, Insurance, And Permits

Ask for the contractor’s state license number, proof of liability, and workers’ comp insurance. Then verify them. Many states let you check online in minutes. Because furnaces burn fuel, correct permits matter. Your contractor should pull permits and schedule inspections—no exceptions. Confirm they’re familiar with local code and utility rebates, especially for a gas furnace replacement Rochester MI. Don’t rely on a verbal “we’re covered.” Request documents. Keep copies with your records. If a contractor hesitates, that’s a red flag. Safety and paperwork aren’t add-ons; they’re part of a professional install.

Compare Quotes the Same Way

Different bids can look confusing. Ask each contractor for a written, itemized proposal. You want model numbers, capacity (BTU), efficiency (AFUE), scope (new flue, gas line, condensate), labor, permits, and any ductwork. Because apples-to-apples wins, line items help you compare value, not just price. Ask for a start date and estimated install time. However, beware of vague “allowances” or missing details.

Ask About Training, Brands, And Parts Access

Great contractors keep learning. Ask about NATE certification (a technician credential) and recent factory training. Because furnaces evolve, ongoing training reduces mistakes and callbacks. Ask which brands they carry and why. A good answer explains service history, parts availability, and fit for your home—not loyalty to a logo. However, confirm they can get parts fast in winter.

Meanwhile, request proof of warranty support. If a contractor can’t easily explain how they’ll handle a failed igniter during a cold snap, consider another option. Reliability isn’t just the box; it’s the team behind it.

Make Sure They Do A Proper Load Calculation

A load calculation estimates how much heat your home actually needs. The standard is Manual J. It considers square footage, insulation, windows, and leakage. Because “rule-of-thumb” sizing often overshoots, oversizing leads to short cycling, noise, and uneven rooms. It can shorten furnace life. Ask how they’ll measure ducts and verify airflow (that’s Manual D). However, don’t panic if they suggest a smaller furnace than you have now. Homes change as insulation and windows improve. For gas furnace replacement Rochester MI, right-sizing is crucial for comfort in deep freezes and milder shoulder seasons alike.

Inspect The Ductwork and Venting Plan

Your furnace is only as good as your ducts. Ask for a quick duct assessment: size, leaks, and static pressure. Because many older homes leak 20–30% of air, sealing and balancing can fix “cold bedroom” problems cheaply than upsizing equipment. Review the venting plan. High-efficiency furnaces often use PVC through a side wall; mid-efficiency furnaces might use a lined chimney. Mixing old and new vent appliances can be unsafe without proper liners. Meanwhile, confirm the condensate drain plan for condensing units. A clean, sloped drain with freeze protection avoids mid-winter surprises.

Read Reviews, References, And See Their Work.

Online reviews help, but ask for two recent local references—ideally within the last year. Call and ask: Did the crew arrive on time? Did the home feel cleaner, quieter, and more even after? Because pictures tell the truth, request a few photos of past installs, including venting and drain details. Also, check the response time for service calls. Winter happens. For gas furnace replacement Rochester MI, quick support on a zero-degree night matters. However, a single bad review isn’t a deal-breaker; patterns are. Look for consistent praise about communication, cleanup, and follow-through.

Understand Warranties, Tune-Ups, And Total Cost.

Ask for two warranties: equipment (from the manufacturer) and workmanship (from the contractor). Get the years in writing. Because fine print hides limits, confirm what labor is covered and for how long. Ask about a maintenance plan: one annual tune-up keeps warranties valid and efficiency high. However, avoid paying for extras you won’t use. A clear strategy should include safety checks, combustion testing, filter guidance, and a reminder schedule.

Meanwhile, consider the lifetime cost, not just the installation price. A slightly higher AFUE and tight ducts often pay back in a few winters, especially with utility rebates. Because details cut guesswork, your quotes will be sharper and more accurate.

Plan Timing, Rebates, And Readiness

Timing affects price and comfort. Shoulder seasons (spring/fall) can offer more scheduling flexibility. Also, lead times vary for popular models and parts. Ask about current utility rebates and the paperwork needed upfront. For gas furnace replacement Rochester MI, programs may require specific efficiency ratings or documentation. However, don’t delay if safety is in question—cracked heat exchangers or CO issues can’t wait. Meanwhile, prep your home: clear a path to the furnace, move storage, and plan for a few hours without heat. Simple prep helps the crew work faster and keeps the install tidy.

Red Flags That Signal “Keep Looking”

A lowball price with vague scope. No permit plan. Pressure to decide “today only.” Because good pros welcome questions, beware of defensive answers about sizing or duct fixes. Watch for quotes that skip combustion testing or venting details. Not every issue is a deal-breaker. If you like the contractor, ask them to clarify the weak spots in writing. Even so, trust your gut. When communication feels off now, it rarely improves later—especially when the first cold front hits and you need help fast.

Choose Calm Over Rush

The right contractor pairs solid design with careful installation. They measure first, explain plainly, and stand by the work. Because your home deserves steady, safe heat, use the steps above to compare bids with confidence. If you’re planning a gas furnace replacement Rochester MI, start early, ask for Manual J, and insist on clear scopes and warranties. Also, keep your comfort goals front and center. When you’re ready, Cooley Mechanical is a friendly, local partner who can point you in the right direction—or help coordinate trusted pros—while also supporting your home and commercial security systems needs. No pressure, just practical help.