How to Install a Mobile Home Electric Furnace

A mobile home electric furnace functions in much the same way that a standard electric furnace in a home does. These furnaces are typically smaller and less powerful, however, as they have a smaller amount of space to heat. Before you install your mobile home electric furnace, it pays off to do a bit of research into the best kinds of furnaces for your mobile home. Some furnaces use up more energy than others and may be better or worse choices for your setup. Read on for a brief guide on how to install a mobile home electric furnace.

Step 1 -- Examine the Old Furnace

If you previously had a furnace in your mobile home, shut off the power at the furnace, and then shut off the power at the central power source as well. Examine the cords that are connected to the furnace. Some of these, like the power cord, will be replaced along with the new furnace. Others, like certain intake and exhaust hoses, will be connected to the mobile home itself and will not automatically get removed along with the old furnace. If any of this second type of hose is damaged, frayed, or leaking, remove it and bring it with you when you purchase a new mobile home furnace. You'll need to replace those hoses.

Step 2 -- Remove the Old Furnace

Remove the electrical connections to the old furnace. Do this only when you're sure that the power is off and the furnace is safe to touch. If you're in doubt, use a volt meter to ensure that the power is off. Examine the electrical adapters and the connection points with the electric furnace. If these are damaged, you'll also need to purchase more of these as well. In most cases, you can unwind or unscrew the electric connections with a screwdriver or a pair of pliers.

Step 3 -- Place the New Furnace in Place

The new furnace should then be installed into the area that the old furnace occupied. Ensure that it will fit properly into the space without being too loose or too tight. Find the electrical connections on the back of the furnace, and match them up with the connection points for the mobile home. Install the furnace by tightening the electric connections first. If the furnace connects to the wall of the mobile home with screws or bolts, use a screwdriver or wrench set to attach it in place. Make sure that you don't tighten it too much, as this can weaken the screws or bolts that hold it in place.

Step 4 -- Test the Furnace

After turning the power back on, turn the furnace on. Wait for about an hour, then come back to check on the furnace. Make sure that the electrical connections are working properly by testing to see that the furnace is properly producing heat.