One of the most frustrating repairs to your gas furnace is a cracked heat exchanger. In many cases, the furnace seems to be working properly, and the cracked heat exchanger is found during routine service by your HVAC technician. Other times, the cracked heat exchanger is found when the gas company turns on service to the residence.
Homeowners often understandably question whether a repair is really necessary since often the furnace otherwise works normally. Unfortunately, it is dangerous to use a furnace with a cracked heat exchanger because it can result in carbon monoxide poisoning.
A gas furnace heats your home by burning natural gas or propane. In addition to creating heat, the combustion process produces various gasses including deadly carbon monoxide. The heat exchanger extracts the heat from the combustion process while allowing the combustion gasses to be safely exhausted out of your home.
When there is a crack or hole in the heat exchanger, there is a danger that carbon monoxide will leak into your home. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless gas that is toxic to humans. Every year, hundreds of Americans die from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by having the cracked heat exchanger replaced or by replacing the furnace. If you have concerns about whether your heat exchanger is cracked, have it inspected by a reputable local HVAC contractor with experience in furnace repair and replacement. Your HVAC technician will be able to identify a cracked heat exchanger and review your options with you. Replacing a cracked heat exchanger can be expensive, but it is necessary for the safety of you and your family.
