What to Expect During a 29-Point Furnace Inspection
- By GreenFlow Heating & Cooling
- Oct 21, 2025
- 3 min read
When the first chill hits the Pacific Northwest, every homeowner wants one thing a reliable furnace that just works. But what does it really mean when an HVAC company says they’re doing a 29-point inspection? At GreenFlow Heating & Cooling, we get this question all the time, so let’s walk through what actually happens during a detailed furnace tune-up and why it matters.
Why a Furnace Inspection Is Worth It
In Tacoma and across Pierce County, furnaces work overtime once fall hits. A 29-point inspection isn’t just about flipping a switch and calling it good it’s about making sure your system is safe, efficient, and ready to perform when it matters most.
Our certified technicians follow a thorough checklist that covers safety, performance, airflow, and efficiency from top to bottom. That means fewer breakdowns, lower energy bills, and peace of mind knowing your home will stay warm when the cold and rain roll in.
Here’s What We Check: The GreenFlow 29-Point Furnace Inspection
Below is an overview of our inspection into 12 main categories, within those, our team checks 29 individual point areas we inspect, clean, and test during your annual heating maintenance:
1. Safety & System Controls
We start with the essentials testing all safety controls, high limits, pressure switches, and flame sensors to make sure your furnace is operating safely and shutting off correctly when needed.
2. Heat Exchanger
We carefully inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, rust, or separation a critical step that helps prevent dangerous carbon monoxide leaks.
3. Ignition & Flame System
We test and clean the ignitor, burners, flame sensor, and pilot assembly to ensure reliable startup and efficient combustion.
4. Electrical Components
Every wire, connection, and control board is checked for tightness and corrosion. We also measure voltage and amp draws to confirm the system is operating within manufacturer specifications.
5. Thermostat Calibration
We test your thermostat accuracy and ensure it’s communicating properly with your furnace for consistent, comfortable heating.
6. Airflow & Ductwork
Proper airflow keeps your system healthy. We check static pressure, inspect return and supply ducts, clean registers, and verify proper air balance to reduce strain on your blower motor.
7. Filter & Blower Assembly
Your air filter and blower wheel get a close look. A dirty blower or clogged filter can increase energy use and shorten your system’s lifespan. We clean or replace as needed.
8. Gas Line & Connections
All gas fittings, valves, and piping are inspected for leaks or corrosion. If necessary, we use leak detection methods to confirm everything is sealed and safe.
9. Exhaust & Venting
We ensure flue pipes, venting, and draft inducer motors are clear of debris and properly exhausting combustion gases to the outdoors.
10. Combustion Analysis
A combustion efficiency test is performed to verify that the furnace is burning fuel correctly and producing the right balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
11. Drain System & Condensate Lines
For high-efficiency furnaces, we inspect and clean condensate traps, drains, and pumps to prevent backups or leaks.
12. System Startup & Cycle Test
Finally, we run the system through a complete heat cycle to observe performance listening for unusual noises, verifying smooth ignition, and confirming consistent temperature rise.
What You Get from a 29-Point Furnace Inspection
By the end of your visit, you’ll receive a full inspection report showing the condition of your system, any areas of concern, and recommendations for improving efficiency or safety.
Here’s what homeowners usually notice afterward:
Quieter operation no more rattles, hums, or unexpected noises
Better airflow and faster heating
Lower monthly bills from increased efficiency
Peace of mind knowing your furnace is operating safely
How Often Should You Schedule an Inspection?
In the Pacific Northwest, we recommend a professional furnace inspection once a year, ideally in September or October before the heavy heating season begins. Regular maintenance keeps your system warranty valid and helps catch small issues before they turn into major repairs.
The GreenFlow Difference
At GreenFlow Heating & Cooling, we treat every tune-up like we’re working on our own home. Our team is known throughout Tacoma, Puyallup, Graham, and the surrounding Pierce County area for detailed inspections, honest communication, and expert workmanship.
Ready to Schedule Your Furnace Inspection?
Don’t wait for the first freezing morning to find out your furnace isn’t working. Schedule your 29-point furnace inspection with GreenFlow Heating & Cooling today and keep your home running warm, safe, and efficient all season long.
Call or Text: 253-370-8641
Serving Tacoma, Puyallup, Graham, Spanaway, and surrounding Pierce County
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