Table of Contents
- 1 Can a cracked heat exchanger be replaced?
- 2 What must be done if a crack is found in a furnace heat exchanger?
- 3 Is the combustion chamber changed as well during a heat exchanger change out?
- 4 How long do heat exchangers last?
- 5 What happens when a heat exchanger goes bad?
- 6 Does a cracked heat exchanger always leak carbon monoxide?
Can a cracked heat exchanger be replaced?
Unfortunately, heat exchangers cannot be repaired. When a heat exchanger cracks or rusts through it must be replaced. Because the heat exchanger is at the center of the furnace, nearly the whole furnace must be disassembled. Even if the parts are covered under warranty, the labor and freight will start around $500.
How much does it cost to replace a cracked heat exchanger?
Replacing a furnace heat exchanger costs $1,500 on average with a typical range between $1,000 and $2,000. Most have a warranty of 10 to 20 years, which usually only covers the price of the exchanger, which typically ranges from $500 to $2,000. Labor alone runs an average of $500.
What must be done if a crack is found in a furnace heat exchanger?
Many companies, upon finding a cracked heat exchanger, will shut your furnace down so you cannot run it. Every cracked heat exchanger needs to be replaced, either by replacing the heat exchanger itself or by replacing the entire furnace. When faced with that decision, something to consider is the age of your unit.
How do I know if my oil heat exchanger is cracked?
Six Signs Your Furnace Heat Exchanger May be Cracked
- Strange smells. A malfunctioning heat exchanger will often create an unpleasant and strong odor that smells similar to formaldehyde.
- Soot Build-up.
- Corrosion & Cracks.
- Change in the flame appearance.
- Audible Sounds.
- Presence of Carbon Monoxide.
Is the combustion chamber changed as well during a heat exchanger change out?
What is a Furnace Heat Exchanger? Every furnace contains a heat exchanger, as it is an essential part of the heating process. Furnaces combust fuel in a sealed chamber to create heat. This combustion process produces heat energy from the fuel source.
Can a cracked heat exchanger cause a fire?
Carbon monoxide poisoning is not the only possible danger a cracked heat exchanger presents. If combustible gas builds up in your heating unit and is released into your home through a fracture, it can lead to a potentially deadly furnace fire.
How long do heat exchangers last?
In most cases, the heat exchanger determines how long your furnace will last. The heat exchanger is responsible for heating the air that circulates through your home in the winter. Heat exchangers usually last about 15 years. If you invest in maintenance, yours might even last 20.
What does a cracked furnace heat exchanger look like?
The Furnace Flame Looks Yellow If your furnace produces a steady blue flame, it’s clear that the furnace’s heat exchanger is functioning efficiently, and there’s nothing to worry about. However, if the furnace produces a yellow flame, it can mean that your burner is dirty or your heat exchanger has cracked.
What happens when a heat exchanger goes bad?
The heat exchanger is a conglomeration of tubes/coils in your furnace where the air is heated. A crack in your heat exchanger can be bad news for you, your furnace, and your home if you don’t act fast. This causes carbon to be burned, which can release nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide.
What can cause soot accumulation on the heat exchanger?
Soot Buildup A buildup of soot is caused by improper combustion that can be a direct result of a cracked exchanger. There may be an accumulation of black soot inside the furnace or close to the cracks in your heat exchanger.
Does a cracked heat exchanger always leak carbon monoxide?
“A furnace with a cracked heat exchanger will definitely produce carbon monoxide and poses an immediate danger”. If combustion gasses could move through a crack in a heat exchanger to the indoor air stream, it would defy the laws of physics. (See the cautionary note about 90% units.)
What happens when heat exchanger fails?
The problem is that all heat exchangers will eventually fail, developing holes or cracks that allow those poisonous gases to leak out and contaminate your home’s air. These leaks can be extremely dangerous, even deadly. In fact, cracked heat exchangers are one of the major causes of carbon monoxide poisoning in homes.