How Long Does Heating Installation Take? A Guide for Homeowners
January 29, 2026 By: One Way Heating & Cooling
Key Takeaways: Heating Installation at a Glance
Before we dive into your custom estimate, here is a quick summary of what to expect when upgrading your home’s comfort system:
Average Timeline: Most installations are completed in 4 to 10 hours, making it a reliable same-day project.
Fuel Type Matters: Electric systems are generally the fastest to install, while gas systems require extra time for safety venting and line plumbing.
Accessibility is Key: The easier it is for our technicians to reach your unit, the faster the job goes. Clearing the area beforehand helps significantly.
Professionalism Saves Time: Hiring NATE-certified experts prevents the delays, safety risks, and warranty issues common with DIY attempts.
Total System Health: Installation day is the best time to inspect your ductwork and upgrade to a smart thermostat for maximum efficiency.
Ready for a Warmer, More Efficient Home?
Don't let the cold catch you off guard. At One Way Heating and Cooling, we pride ourselves on providing El Paso homeowners with fast, professional, and transparent service. We’ll get your new system up and running safely so you can get back to your routine.
Stop shivering and start saving!
Call One Way Heating and Cooling today at (915) 525-5737 or click here to schedule your free, no-obligation installation estimate!
Getting Your Comfort Back: What Is the Timeline for a New Heater?
When the El Paso desert air takes a chilly turn, the last thing you want is a broken heater. If you’ve decided it’s time for an upgrade, the first question on your mind is likely: "How long is this going to take?" At One Way Heating and Cooling, we know that your time is valuable. You don’t want to be stuck in a cold house for days on end while technicians work. The good news is that most modern heating installations are faster than you might think. Typically, a professional furnace installation takes between 4 and 10 hours.
However, every home is different. Whether you’re replacing an old gas furnace or installing a brand-new heat pump system, several variables can shift the timeline. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what happens on installation day and why some jobs take a little longer than others.
Is it possible to install a new heater in just one day?
For the vast majority of homeowners, the answer is a resounding yes. If you are doing a "change-out," which means replacing an old unit with a new one of the same type, our team at One Way Heating and Cooling can usually have your heat back on by dinner time.
Most standard furnace replacements take about 4 to 8 hours. This includes:
Safely disconnecting and removing the old unit.
Preparing the area for the new equipment.
Connecting the new furnace to existing gas lines, electrical, and ductwork.
Testing the system for safety and efficiency.
If you’re switching from one system type to another (like moving from a traditional furnace to a heat pump), the process might lean closer to the 10-hour mark, but it is still often a single-day job.
What factors influence the length of a heating installation?
While we aim for a single-day turnaround, certain factors can extend the clock. Understanding these variables helps you plan your day and ensures there are no surprises when our technicians arrive.
1. The Type of Heating System
The "fuel" your system uses plays a huge role in installation speed.
Electric Furnaces: These are generally the fastest to install (4–6 hours) because they don’t require complex venting or gas line connections.
Gas Furnaces: These require precise gas line plumbing and exhaust venting to ensure carbon monoxide is safely moved out of your home. This typically takes 6 to 10 hours.
Heat Pumps: Because these often involve an indoor and an outdoor unit, the wiring and refrigerant line setup can take a full day.
2. The Condition of Your Ductwork
Think of your ductwork as the "highways" for your heat. If your existing ducts are in great shape, we simply hook up the new unit and go. However, if your ducts are leaky, undersized, or disconnected, we may need to spend a few extra hours sealing or repairing them to ensure your new high-efficiency unit actually works the way it’s supposed to.
3. Accessibility of the Unit
Where is your furnace located? If it’s in a spacious garage or a dedicated utility closet, our team can work quickly. If the unit is tucked away in a tight crawlspace, a cramped attic, or behind several layers of storage boxes, it takes longer to maneuver the heavy equipment and complete the delicate wiring.
4. System Upgrades and Customizations
Are you adding a smart thermostat? A whole-home humidifier? An advanced air purification system? While these additions are fantastic for your comfort and health, they do add time to the setup and calibration phase.
Before committing to a full replacement, it’s worth checking if a professional fix could extend your current unit's life. If you aren't sure, take a look at these 6 signs you need heating repair to see if your system just needs a tune-up.
What does the installation process look like step-by-step?
Knowing what to expect can take the stress out of installation day. When you work with One Way Heating and Cooling, we follow a methodical process to ensure nothing is missed.
Step 1: Arrival and Site Protection: Our technicians arrive within their scheduled window. We protect your flooring and furniture before moving any equipment.
Step 2: Old Unit Removal: We disconnect the power, fuel source, and ducting to safely remove your old, inefficient heater.
Step 3: Site Prep: We inspect the platform and the immediate duct connections. If anything needs to be leveled or reinforced, we do it now.
Step 4: New Unit Placement: The new furnace or heat pump is positioned and secured.
Step 5: Connections: We hook up the electrical, gas (if applicable), and ventilation. This is the most detail-oriented part of the job.
Step 6: Testing and Calibration: We don't just "turn it on." We test the airflow, check for leaks, and ensure the thermostat communicates perfectly with the new system.
Step 7: Clean Up and Walkthrough: We leave your home as clean as we found it and show you how to operate your new system.
Does home size affect how long the installation takes?
Yes, but perhaps not in the way you’d expect. While a larger furnace isn't necessarily harder to "plug in" than a small one, larger homes often have more complex duct systems.
If you have a multi-story home or a zoned system (where different rooms have different thermostats), the wiring and balancing of the air can add several hours to the project. For very large estates, an installation might occasionally stretch into a second day to ensure every room receives the proper amount of airflow.
Can a DIY installation save time?
In short: No. In fact, trying to install a heater yourself is dangerous and almost always takes longer. Heating systems involve high-voltage electricity, combustible gas, and complex ventilation.
A professional team like One Way Heating and Cooling brings specialized tools and years of experience. What takes a DIYer a week of frustration takes our NATE-certified technicians a single afternoon. Furthermore, most manufacturers will void your warranty if the system isn't installed by a licensed professional.
How should you prepare for installation day?
To help our team work as efficiently as possible, there are a few things you can do before we arrive:
Clear the Path: Move furniture, boxes, or debris away from the furnace and the path leading to it.
Secure Pets: Installations can be noisy, and we will be moving in and out of the house. Keeping pets in a safe, quiet room prevents stress and accidents.
Parking: If possible, leave a space in your driveway for our service van so we can easily access our tools.
Why choose One Way Heating and Cooling for your El Paso home?
In El Paso, we know that heating isn't just about warmth, it's about reliability. Since 2010, we have built a reputation for being the "One Way" to get HVAC done right. Our technicians are factory-trained and NATE-certified, meaning they have the highest level of expertise in the industry.
We don't just sell you a unit, we size it specifically for your home's square footage and layout to ensure you aren't overpaying for energy. From the first consultation to the final safety check, we treat your home like our own.
Conclusion
While every home is unique, you can generally expect your heating installation to be completed in one business day. By choosing a professional team, preparing your space, and understanding the factors that influence timing, you can enjoy a stress-free transition to a warmer, more comfortable home.
Don't wait for the next cold snap to realize your old heater isn't up to the task. Whether you need a quick replacement or a full system overhaul, we’re ready to help.
Ready to upgrade your comfort? Contact One Way Heating and Cooling today to schedule your free installation estimate!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I be without heat during the installation?
A: Yes, the system will be turned off during the process. However, since most installations are completed within a few hours, your home shouldn't lose too much residual heat. We recommend scheduled installations during the morning so the house is warm again by evening.
Q: Do I need a permit for a new heater installation?
A: Yes, in most areas, a permit is required to ensure the installation meets local safety codes. One Way Heating and Cooling handles the permitting process for you, so you don't have to worry about the paperwork.
Q: Can I keep my old thermostat with a new furnace?
A: Often, yes. However, if you’re upgrading to a high-efficiency or multi-stage system, your old thermostat may not be compatible with the new features. We usually recommend a modern smart thermostat to maximize your energy savings.
Q: How long does the old furnace removal take?
A: Removing the old unit typically takes 1 to 2 hours. This includes shutting off utilities, disconnecting the plenum, and physically moving the unit out of the home.
Q: Does weather affect the installation time?
A: Heavy rain or extreme cold can occasionally slow down the process, especially if our technicians need to work on outdoor units or roof vents. However, we are experienced in El Paso's climate and plan accordingly to keep the job on track.