4 Symptoms of a Cracked Heat Exchanger

Nobody wants to check their furnace only to find that the heat exchanger has developed a crack, and a cracked heat exchanger is the sort of problem that should never be ignored. Regular maintenance by a trusted HVAC technician can help you avoid this costly and potentially dangerous problem, but it’s also important that homeowners be able to recognize the signs of a cracked heat exchanger on their own. 

• Soot buildup – The buildup of soot in furnaces is caused by improper combustion. When a crack forms in your heat exchanger, it allows soot to escape, causing a visible black soot buildup in the internal components of your furnace, usually in the general area of the crack.
• Abnormal flame – The flame in your furnace should burn steadily and have a clean, blue color. A flame that jumps or flickers and appears yellow or orange in color indicates a combustion problem. This becomes more likely as a furnace ages, and a cracked heat exchanger is one possible cause.
• High carbon monoxide levels – One of the reasons a crack in your heat exchanger is so dangerous is that it allows deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gas to escape into your living space. You should have a carbon monoxide alarm installed in the room where your furnace is kept. If the alarm sounds, leave your house immediately and contact your local fire department or gas utility company.
• Rust or cracks – Visible rust, cracks or other damage to the metal components of your furnace is one of the most obvious signs of a problem. Rust often occurs if your furnace has been exposed to water, and can lead to a crack even if one has not yet formed. If you see rust or cracks in your furnace, contact a HVAC professional for service immediately, and do not run your furnace until it has been inspected.

To learn more about the dangers of a cracked heat exchanger, or to schedule your HVAC system for an inspection, contact Paschal Heat, Air & Geothermal today. We have been proudly serving Springdale and Northwest Arkansas Since 1968.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Springdale, Arkansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about cracked heat exchangers and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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