The installation of a new high-efficiency furnace in an existing home can result in significant homeowner benefits including reduced energy consumption, lower homeowner utility bills, longer equipment lifespans, and improved occupant thermal comfort. However, without quality installation approaches and procedures, new furnace equipment may never deliver on its expected performance (Figure 1). ENERGY STAR® has found that new furnaces often do not perform to their rated efficiency with some systems suffering up to a 30% reduction in performance as a result of improper installation.¹ The gap between conventional and quality furnace installations represents a meaningful opportunity for industry players who promote and follow best practices. By applying quality installation techniques, contractors can ensure that they are compliant with present and future codes, permits, and utility programs. Additionally, the furnace enhancements and add-ons associated with quality installations can lead to increased revenue and profit margins as well as reduced callbacks for contractors.

In 2018, FortisBC introduced new Furnace and Boiler Replacement Program compliance criteria in an effort to increase the application of quality installation practices. However, follow-up program compliance evaluations have indicated that the new program requirements may require additional clarification, in particular two-pipe venting. Additionally, some replacement furnace installations were not consistent with condensate management requirements under the BC Building Code. This bulletin attempts to clarify two furnace installation criteria where non-compliant practices were frequently observed: venting and condensate management (Figure 2).

---------

¹ A Guide to Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling, ENERGY STAR®, 2013, Pg.20.