Do You Need a Furnace in the Attic? (Pros and Cons)

Last Updated on February 22, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

When it comes to furnaces, there are a lot of misconceptions out there. One of the most common is that you can only put a furnace in the basement. This isn’t true!

In fact, you can put a furnace in just about any room in your house including the attic! So, do you need a furnace in the attic? The answer to that question depends on your specific situation. Keep reading to learn more about furnaces and whether or not you need one in the attic.

furnace in the attic

Is it bad to have a furnace in the attic?

Again, this question depends on your specific situation. If you have an attic with proper insulation and ventilation, then having a furnace up there is probably not a problem. However, if your attic is poorly insulated or doesn’t have good ventilation, then it’s probably not a good idea to install a furnace up there. The warm air from the furnace will cause the insulation to become less effective, and it could also lead to problems with moisture accumulation.

Related: 7 Worst Furnace Brands To Avoid and 5 Most Reliable Brands

Why would someone put a furnace in the attic?

There are a few reasons why someone might put a furnace in the attic. Maybe the basement is too small to install a furnace, or maybe there isn’t enough room for the ductwork in the basement.

Another reason could be that the home is located in a warm climate and doesn’t need a furnace in the winter. Finally, some people just prefer to have the furnace in a different part of the house.

Pros of putting furnace in the attic:

You can save space in the basement by putting the furnace in the attic.

If you have a gas furnace, you can save money on your utility bills by installing it in the attic. By having the furnace up in the attic, it will be using the warmer air from upstairs to heat your home, rather than drawing warm air from outside and causing your furnace to work harder. This will help keep your energy bills lower in the winter.

Attic furnaces are great for homes that don’t need them in the winter because they can be turned off when not needed.

Another benefit of having your furnace in the attic is that it can help keep your home cooler in the summer. By drawing air from upstairs, rather than from outside, you will be able to keep the temperature inside your home more consistent. This can be a big help if you have central air conditioning, as it can keep your home from getting too hot and causing your AC to work harder.

Less Flood damage – If you live in a flood-prone area, having your furnace in the attic can help keep your home from taking on water in the event of a flood. By keeping the furnace up high, it will be less likely to become submerged if there is flooding.

Cons of putting furnace in the attic

If your attic isn’t well insulated, you could lose a lot of heat through the roof.

The furnace will be more difficult to service if it’s in the attic. One is that it can be more difficult to access, especially if there is no stairway leading up to the attic. If something goes wrong with your furnace, it will be harder to fix if it is up in the attic.

Moisture accumulation can be a problem if the attic isn’t properly ventilated.

Another downside of having your furnace in the attic is that it can be more expensive. This is because the installation process will be a bit more complicated, and you may need to hire a professional to do it for you.

Temperatures in the attic can also be quite a bit higher than in the rest of your home, so if you’re going to put your furnace up there, make sure that the attic is well insulated.

How much does it cost to put a furnace in the attic?

It typically costs between $500 and $800 to install a furnace in the attic. However, this cost can vary depending on the size of your home, the type of furnace you choose, and whether or not you have insulation in your attic.

How much space is needed in an attic for a furnace?

Most attics have enough space for a furnace, but it is important to measure the dimensions of your attic before you decide to purchase a furnace. The furnace should be installed in an area that is at least 18 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 30 inches high. If your attic doesn’t meet these dimensions, you may need to get a smaller furnace.

How to install a furnace in the attic:

how to install furnace in attic

If you’re thinking about installing a furnace in your attic, it’s important to hire a professional to do the job. They will be able to ensure that the furnace is installed properly and that all of the necessary safety precautions are taken. In most cases, it costs between $500 and $800 to have a furnace installed in the attic.

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Where should a furnace be located in a house?

There are a few different places where a furnace can be located in a house. The most common place is in the basement, but it can also be installed in the attic or garage.

It’s important to choose the location of the furnace based on the needs of your home. For example, if you have central air conditioning, you may want to install the furnace in the attic so that it can help keep your home cool.

If you’re not using central air, you may want to put the furnace in the basement so that it’s easier to access.

Why do builders put furnaces in the attic?

Most builders put furnaces in the attic because it is an easy place to install them. The furnace can be easily accessed, and there is usually enough space for it in the attic. Additionally, by having the furnace in the attic, it will help keep the temperature inside your home more consistent. This can be a big help if you have central air conditioning.

Do attic furnaces have filters?

Yes, attic furnaces typically have filters that need to be replaced on a regular basis. It’s important to replace these filters regularly in order to ensure that the furnace is working properly and that the air quality in your home is good. Filters should be replaced every three months or whenever they become clogged.

How long does an attic furnace last?

An attic furnace typically lasts around 15 to 20 years. However, this lifespan can vary depending on the type of furnace you choose, how often it is used, and the quality of the installation. It’s important to have your furnace serviced regularly in order to ensure that it is working properly and that it has a long life span.

Can an electric furnace be installed in the attic?

Yes, an electric furnace can be installed in the attic. However, it’s important to make sure that your home has enough electrical capacity to support an electric furnace before you decide to install one.

Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that the attic is properly insulated and ventilated in order to keep your home comfortable and safe. If you’re not sure whether or not an electric furnace is right for your home, consult with a qualified HVAC technician. They can help you decide which type of furnace is best for your needs and budget.

Conclusion

If you’re considering installing a furnace in your attic, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision. By taking into account the needs of your home and your budget, you can choose the right furnace for your needs.

If you have any questions or need help deciding which type of furnace is best for you, consult with a qualified HVAC technician. They can help you choose the right furnace for your home and ensure that it is installed properly. Thanks for reading!