Furnace Heat Exchanger Problems in Cleveland, OH

One of the most critical components of a furnace is the heat exchanger.
Furnace heat exchanger problems in Cleveland, OH are very serious and should
be addressed as soon as possible.
Here is some information on heat exchangers, some of the reasons they encounter
problems, and what you should do if you spot something wrong.

Heat Exchangers in Cleveland, OH
The heat exchanger separates air used in the combustion process from the air inside your home that you breathe. It is typically a metal chamber that begins at the burner assembly and stops near the chimney vent and furnace connect. As air moves across the heat exchanger’s hot metal surface it is warmed and then distributed through your home. It is imperative that your heat exchanger is sealed tightly, because if
gasses from the flue are allowed into your breathing air, carbon monoxide poisoning is a distinct possibility.

Reasons for Heat Exchanger Failure in Cleveland, OH

Eventually, metal fatigue will lead to a heat exchanger failure. Metal expands when heated and contracts when it cools off. This constant movement will result in a breakage – for the same reason that a paper clip
will eventually break when it is moved back and forth. Most heat exchangers normally last between 10 and 20 years, but if they are poorly designed, installed or maintained, their lifespan can be substantially reduced.

Signs of Heat Exchanger Failure in Cleveland, OH
Typically, the only way that you can spot a heat exchanger problem is by looking for some sort of breach, such as light or water passing through a crack or a hole. At Arco Comfort Air, we use sophisticated infrared video inspection devices to thoroughly examine every inch of a heat exchanger – this is far superior to the old method of using a flashlight and a mirror. Many people assume that testing for carbon monoxide will expose a heat exchanger problem, but the exchanger can still be breached even if a furnace is not producing the toxic substance.

What to do if Your Heat Exchanger Fails in Cleveland, OH
Unfortunately, you basically have only two options if your heat exchanger is bad – either replace the exchanger or replace the furnace. The first option is preferable if it is still under warranty; however, if
a replacement is not available quickly and the weather is cold, you may simply need a completely new furnace. A new furnace may be the better option if the cost of replacing the heat exchanger is comparable to a system replacement.

Call Arco Comfort Air and one of our professionals will come to your home,
perform a thorough analysis of your heat exchanger and the rest of your
furnace, and completely spell out all of your potential options.