Furnace Inspection Checklist for Brownsburg Homeowners

Feb 4, 2026

Before the chill of winter grips the Brownsburg area, it’s essential for homeowners to proactively prepare their heating systems. Taking time to inspect and tune up your furnace ahead of the season ensures reliable warmth throughout the coldest months. Scheduling a furnace inspection in late summer or early fall can help you avoid inconvenient breakdowns and keep your home cozy when it matters most. Proper planning not only enhances comfort, but also helps to avoid costly emergency repairs during peak winter weather.

Need professional help getting your furnace winter-ready? Contact Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling for expert solutions in Brownsburg. Get a $69 Heating Tune-Up and ensure your system is running efficiently this winter! (Terms and conditions apply).

Verify Your Thermostat

A functional thermostat is crucial for consistent and efficient heating. Each year, before heavy furnace use begins, make sure your thermostat responds promptly to changes in temperature settings. If it is unresponsive, inaccurate, or shows signs of wear, recalibration or replacement could be necessary. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which allows convenient temperature control from your smartphone and can lead to improved energy efficiency. Smart thermostats also help maintain a steady indoor climate during Brownsburg’s unpredictable winter temperatures.

Maintain Vents and Ductwork

Your furnace works most efficiently when airflow is unobstructed. Over time, dust, pet hair, and debris can build up in vents and ductwork, leading to reduced system efficiency and increased energy consumption. Start your inspection by checking and replacing furnace filters, as recommended by the manufacturer—typically every three months. Consult with your local HVAC professional about scheduling routine inspections if you find it difficult to remember filter changes.

In addition to changing filters, check all registers and ensure they are not blocked by furniture, rugs, or drapes. Clear, direct airflow contributes to better heating and also keeps dust and allergens from circulating throughout your living spaces.

Detect Unusual Sounds and Smells

Turning your furnace on after a season of inactivity could reveal new noises or unexpected odors. While a faint burning smell upon initial use is common, persistent, strong, or strange odors—especially burning or musty smells—may indicate deeper problems. Likewise, banging, grinding, or squealing sounds are warnings of potential mechanical issues and should not be ignored. Another concern is short-cycling, when the furnace turns on and off frequently, which may signal underlying inefficiencies or malfunctions. Address these issues by consulting a qualified HVAC technician experienced in Brownsburg homes.

Ensure Carbon Monoxide Safety

Home safety starts with reliable carbon monoxide protection. Regularly test all carbon monoxide detectors in your home—ideally, once a month. Replace batteries every six months, and change out the entire unit as recommended by the manufacturer, usually every five to ten years. Since malfunctioning furnaces can be a source of carbon monoxide leaks, this simple step is fundamental to protecting your household each winter. Never overlook any alarms or warning indicators from your detector, and act immediately if you suspect an issue.

Conduct Additional System Checks

While filters, vents, and thermostats handle much of day-to-day comfort, in-depth checks are just as important. Carefully examine the furnace’s heat exchanger for signs of rust or cracks, which can create dangerous gas leaks. Look at the flue and vent pipes for any soot buildup or obstructions. These signs may indicate improper combustion or ventilation issues. Inspect burners and heating elements for consistent ignition and operation. After completing your checks, run the system to confirm steady performance, even airflow, and the absence of odd noises or smells.

Professional Checks for Oil, Gas, and Electric Furnaces

While many inspection tasks are manageable for homeowners, some system components should only be addressed by licensed HVAC professionals, especially regarding oil, gas, or electric furnace types.

Oil Furnaces: A professional will check the fuel delivery system, burner performance, and internal components for leaks or wear. They also test all safety controls, ensuring everything operates correctly to protect your home and family.
Gas Furnaces: An HVAC technician inspects gas lines, ignition systems, burner flames, ventilation, and safety features. Any irregularity in fuel delivery or combustion is carefully evaluated to prevent hazards.
Electric Furnaces: Technicians test electrical wiring, heating elements, relays, and voltage controls. This ensures efficient operation and reduces the risk of electrical malfunctions.

Entrusting these complex inspections to an expert keeps your furnace running safely and efficiently, offering peace of mind throughout Brownsburg’s winter.

Signs You May Need Furnace Repair

While inspecting your system, watch for indicators that professional repairs may be needed:

Difficulty igniting the furnace, or a pilot light that appears yellow instead of blue
Reduced or uneven heating in parts of your home
Unusual noises such as banging or scraping
Unexpected increases in energy bills
Weak airflow from vents or persistent dust accumulation around registers
Smell of gas or a triggered carbon monoxide detector—evacuate and call emergency services immediately

Being vigilant of these warning signs can help you catch and resolve issues promptly, ensuring uninterrupted warmth all season long.

Stay Comfortable All Winter with Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling

Preparing your furnace ahead of winter isn’t just about comfort—it’s a proactive step towards ensuring safety, energy savings, and peace of mind for your family in the Brownsburg area. Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling is dedicated to helping you make the most of your heating system. Our experienced technicians perform thorough inspections, handle routine maintenance, and quickly address any necessary repairs to keep your home warm no matter how low the temperatures drop.

If you want reliable furnace performance all season, don’t wait for the first cold snap. Schedule a professional furnace inspection with Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling and enjoy a warm, comfortable home all winter long.

Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling Is Ready to Help

Keep your heating system in peak condition this winter with help from Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Experience the comfort and peace of mind you deserve by scheduling an inspection or repair today. Call us at (317) 742-6699 or book your appointment online for trusted furnace service in Brownsburg.