Heat exchangers are subjected to extreme temperatures, and as they heat up and cool down over the course of a heating cycle, their metal expands and contracts. This stress alone makes them susceptible to cracking. However, there are additional factors that can worsen the chance of cracking. Anything that pushes those high temperatures even higher will accelerate the deterioration of the heat exchanger. Overheating can be caused by overly high gas pressure or too little airflow through the system. This is often the result of an over-sized furnace combined with comparatively undersized duct-work.
On the other hand, too much airflow, which causes lower-than-normal temperatures, can be just as damaging. In a furnace, vent gases need to be kept at certain temperatures to keep the moisture in the gas from condensing in the wrong places. The moisture in burned gas is slightly acidic. Over time, this acid will corrode a heat exchanger.
There are no shortages of potential dangers in a furnace that is not working properly, and Carbon Monoxide is one of them. In a properly functioning gas furnace system, the flue transfers carbon monoxide (and other gases) safely out of the house. A damaged or blocked flue can send them into the home instead. A gas furnace’s heat exchanger is another potential source of leaked carbon monoxide. The heat exchanger contains the gas combustion chamber. As air is circulated through the HVAC system, it passes over the heat exchanger and absorbs thermal energy before it’s circulated throughout the house. Over time, the heat exchanger can crack or separate, allowing carbon monoxide to enter the house. One Hour Heating and Air of Northern Illinois not only knows why cracks in heat exchangers sometimes develop, but their trained and certified technicians also know what homeowners should do when this problem occurs.
A cracked heat exchanger is a problem that will go unnoticed by most homeowners. However, professional One Hour Heating and Air of Northern Illinois technicians always check heat exchangers for damage during their maintenance inspection. The first step is simply to look where most homeowners can’t. One Hour Heating and Air of Northern Illinois technicians do visual inspections using a telescoping camera, ensuring all potential hazards are seen and properly dealt with immediately. Thus, keeping you and your family safe from HVAC disasters for many years to come, but remember, The HVAC system, just as in a car, requires regular maintenance. This can help prevent this problem in the first place.
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