What must be performed before a new heating installation?

Before a new heating installation, it's essential to conduct a heat loss system design and load calculation. This process involves determining how much heat is lost from a building to the outside environment, which directly influences the size and efficiency of the heating system required. By understanding the specific heating needs of the space, installers can select the appropriate equipment and ensure that the system operates effectively and efficiently.

This foundational assessment helps in preventing common issues such as oversized or undersized heating systems, which can lead to higher energy costs, decreased comfort levels, and increased wear and tear on equipment. Proper load calculations take into account factors such as insulation levels, window sizes, and overall building design, ensuring that the heating system installed is tailored to the specific conditions of the home or building.

The other options are relevant in the context of a complete installation process but do not take precedence over the heat loss calculation. While pressure tests of fuel lines and safety assessments are important, they occur after or alongside the design phase. A homeowner survey can also be useful but is more about gathering subjective information than establishing definitive heating requirements based on physical calculations.