Maintenance Guides / HVAC & Air Quality

Inspect gas furnace flue pipe

Difficulty: moderateTime: 15 mins

Why it matters

A disconnected or rusted flue pipe allows deadly carbon monoxide gas to escape into the home instead of venting outdoors.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Turn off the furnace at the thermostat or breaker for safety during inspection.

  • 2

    Access your furnace room or attic to view the furnace exhaust flue.

  • 3

    Inspect the metal flue pipe for visible rust, corrosion, holes, or moisture damage.

  • 4

    Check that the flue connects securely to the furnace collar or outlet.

  • 5

    Verify the connection is sealed with furnace cement, not standard duct tape.

  • 6

    Look for any visible sag or downslope in the horizontal flue sections.

  • 7

    Trace the flue to the roof to confirm it extends above the roofline.