Containing hot combustion gases, the coiled tubes that loop repeatedly through the air flow inside your furnace is called the heat exchanger, or sometimes referenced as a fire box or chamber. The air gets warmer without having to come into contact with dangerous gases, as the blower kicks on and cool air flows over the gas, heating the air. Then rising into the plenum, is the heated air and the plenum, a sheet-metal box, is connected to supply ducts. The air ducts then distribute that warm air throughout your home. Involved in this process is the combustion gas, and after giving off their heat, it will pass through the flue pipe and safely exit the house. Considering this, we at Agape Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing would like to elaborate further on the heat exchanger that is part of your furnace.
Dangers of Hairline Crack in Furnace Heat Exchanger
A major hazard is if the dangerous combustion gases leaks into your living space due to any cracks, splinters, or holes in the heat exchanger. Whenever fuel is burned, combustion spillage can occur. The toxic compounds can cause major health problems, and even be fatal, though quantities can be low. Such hazardous substance released while fossil fuels are burning include the following:
– Carbon Dioxide
– Carbon Monoxide
– Hydrocarbons
– Nitrogen Dioxide
– Nitric Oxide
– Sulfur
– Volatile Organic Compounds
Combustion Efficiency in Furnace Heating Equipment
Although heating equipment is generally designed to safely remove all of the combustion gases from the building, a number of factors can determine the amount of combustion gases created. None of the combustion gases should ever make it into the circulating air with an efficiently operating heat exchanger and ventilation system. However, combustion leakage can potentially develop and unfortunately, you may not even be aware of it being that most combustion gases are odorless and colorless; carbon monoxide, otherwise known as the silent killer, for example.
How Combustion Gasses Leak into Home
There are 3 common reasons as to how combustion gases leaks into home; and they include:
1) Vent or chimney issues.
2) Damaged equipment, such as a cracked heat exchanger.
3) Pressure problems, negative pressure causing a backdraft for instance.
Heating Maintenance to Prevent a Cracked Firebox Furnace
To avoid problems with the heat exchanger, this is among the many reasons as to why you do not want to neglect professional maintenance. During the tune-ups and inspections, the technician assesses the heat exchanger, ventilation system, and thoroughly looks for any evidence of incomplete combustion of the fuel. Generally, the primary cause of a cracked heat exchanger, of lack of professional maintenance. It is more difficult for air to pass through and get heated when there is a buildup of dirt and debris on the blowers, coils, filters, and the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger could possibly overheat, developing cracks and splinters. Excessive gas pressure can also lead to cracks on the heat exchanger. The amount of pressure can be altered simply because the valves that control the pressure wear down.
Furnace & Boiler Heating Services & More in Manhattan, Flushing, Queens, Brooklyn & The Bronx, New York
Typically, only a trained professional can detect a cracked heat exchanger, but you can stay safe by ensuring you have a carbon monoxide detector and you routinely check to ensure it is working. Should it go off, do not ignore it. Switch off your furnace and call Agape Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing before turning it back on. We will evaluate the heat exchanger and offer repairs or replacements according to your specific circumstances. Contact us for all your HVAC needs.
