Furnace Inspection Checklist Every Homeowner Should Know

Even as winter temperatures settle in across Anderson, IN, it’s not too late to take a proactive approach to your home’s comfort. Scheduling furnace service later in the winter helps ensure your system continues to run reliably through the colder months while also setting the stage for a smooth transition into spring and summer. A winter inspection allows technicians to catch wear, efficiency issues, or airflow problems that could impact your air conditioner when warmer weather arrives. Taking care of your system now means fewer breakdowns, improved efficiency, and confidence that your home will be ready for AC season.

To ensure a warm and cozy winter in your Anderson home, book a furnace tune-up for only $69 at Summers PHC. We also offer a complete furnace inspection for only $69. And you get a FREE service call with any paid repair, Monday through Friday. Hurry! This is a limited-time offer only. (Terms and conditions apply.)

Test Your Thermostat and Upgrade If Needed

If your thermostat does not work properly, your furnace cannot heat your home consistently. Every year, before winter sets in, you should test your thermostat by adjusting the temperature. If the furnace responds accordingly, the thermostat is in good working order. If not, you might need to recalibrate the thermostat.

If you have an older thermostat, you should consider replacing it with a smart model. Smart thermostats can help keep your home’s temperature consistent, and you can even adjust settings from your phone.

Clean Your System’s Vents and Ducts

Your HVAC system’s vents and ducts will get dusty over time. During the inspection, check for dust, dirt, and other debris. If you neglect cleaning, your furnace will not operate as efficiently as it should. You may also notice an increase in allergy symptoms.

While you are inspecting the ducts and vents, you should also replace the furnace filters. In fact, you should change these filters more often than just once a year.

Most manufacturers recommend replacing them every 3 months. If you often forget to change the filters, schedule regular inspections and replacements with your local HVAC contractor. Also, ensure the vents are not blocked by curtains or furniture.

Check for Unusual Odors and Noises

When you start your furnace for the first time after summer, you might hear unusual noises. You may also smell persistent odd odors. If the smell does not go away or the dust is not burning off, shut off the system and call a professional contractor.

If the system makes banging or grinding sounds, it may indicate that one or more components are failing. In this case, you also need a professional to inspect the system and advise you on repairs.

You may notice your furnace short-cycling or repeatedly turning off and on. All of the above warrant a call to your local HVAC professional.

Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Your carbon monoxide detectors must be checked at least once a month. These checks involve pressing the test button to verify that the detectors function as intended. You should also replace the batteries at least once every six months, or once a year if you have hardwired units. The entire detector unit should be replaced every five to ten years.

Additional Checks

In addition to the above, inspect your furnace’s heat exchanger for cracks or rust. These issues could cause dangerous gas leaks. If there’s a buildup or soot in the flue and vent pipes, you need to clear it out. You must also clean the heating elements and burners to ensure consistent heat. Once you have completed all necessary checks, run a full system test to verify proper airflow and furnace operation.

Oil, Gas, and Electric Furnace Checks

Oil, gas, and electric furnaces work differently. Internal checks for these systems should not be handled by homeowners on their own. Inspections involve checking fuel delivery, safety controls, and electrical components. It is always best that a licensed HVAC technician with the right tools and training inspect these parts and fix whatever is worn or broken.

For oil furnaces, the technician will check the fuel system and the burner operation. They will also look for leaks and wear in the internal components. Part of the check includes making sure there is enough lubrication and that the safety controls are in good working order. These steps help ensure that the fuel flows properly and your furnace supplies steady heat.

When a technician inspects a gas furnace, they focus on safe fuel delivery and combustion. The technician will confirm that the ignition system works and that the flame quality is good. They will also ensure proper ventilation to expel exhaust gases from your home. This inspection also includes safety switches and confirmation that the furnace operates within safe limits during a complete heating cycle.

If you have an electric furnace, it needs detailed testing. A professional should verify the voltage and secure the wiring. They should also check that the heating elements and controls work correctly. Proper inspection and proactive maintenance can help prevent overheating and electrical failures.

Signs You Need a Furnace Repair

If you discover any of the following issues during your inspection, you need a professional furnace repair.

• The ignition fails, or the pilot light is yellow instead of blue.
• The furnace does not heat properly.
• The unit makes strange noises, or there is noise coming from the ductwork.
• You notice a sharp rise in your heating bills.
• You find excess dust near the furnace vents.
• The airflow from the furnace is weak.
• You get a carbon monoxide alert, or you smell gas. This is an emergency in which you need to evacuate and call emergency services.

Get Your Furnace In Excellent Shape With Summers PHC

If your furnace does not work properly or breaks down unexpectedly, you might have a miserable and cold winter. Prevent this by calling Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling for an expert furnace inspection in Anderson, IN. We can inspect and repair your furnace to ensure your Anderson home is consistently heated during the cold. We can also tune up your furnace if needed.

Contact Summers PHC at 765-444-6175 to find out more about our furnace services or book an inspection online. Don’t forget to check out our local specials for Anderson homeowners.