If you ever notice a crack in any part of your HVAC system, you should call your HVAC company. While a cracked heat exchanger is never quite as obvious as the crack in the vent pipe you see in the picture above, a crack of any size should be of equal concern to you. A cracked heat exchanger is serious and needs to be addressed.
What is a heat exchanger?
Every gas furnace has at least one heat exchanger, and more efficient furnaces have two. It transfers the heat from the combustion of gas into your house without passing any of the harmful gases or chemicals. Basically, it’s responsible for generating the hot air that your furnace blows into your home.
Why is a cracked heat exchanger a big deal?
The heat exchanger is there to keep the byproducts of combustion such as carbon monoxide from entering your home. If there is a crack in your heat exchanger these exhaust gasses can flow through the crack in the heat exchanger and into your home. This is cause for concern and needs to be addressed immediately. This is also why every home should have at least one up-to-date working carbon monoxide detector.
What if I have a cracked heat exchanger?
As with any gas appliance, regular maintenance on your furnace is the best way to ensure your unit is running safely and efficiently. Ask your service provider when booking your appointment to inspect the heat exchanger and report on their findings.
More often than not, a crack in the heat exchanger will require the replacement of either the heat exchanger itself or the entire system. Your HVAC technician will advise on the best course of action.
If you suspect a cracked heat exchanger, call Delta immediately.
Delta Air Systems is an established heating company in the Kitchener-Waterloo region. We’ve been installing, servicing and repairing furnaces since the 1950s and work hard to ensure complete customer satisfaction.
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