The heat exchanger is made up of a network of coiled tubes that house combustion gases. The heat exchanger has also been known as the chamber, or fire box. Avoiding contact the with the dangerous gases, the air gets warm when the blower is switched on and the cool air flows over the heat exchanger. The heated air rises into a sheet-metal box, known as the plenum; and the plenum is connected to the air supply ducts. From there, the air ducts will then distribute that warm in the rooms of your home. After the air warming process that the combustion gases provide, it will pass through the flue pipe and safely leave your home. Today, we at Air Supply Heating & Air Conditioning would like to take the opportunity to share some basic information concerning your heat exchanger.

Dangers of Heat Exchanger Gas Leak

It is important to know that should any combustion gases leak into your home, it is extremely dangerous. The combustion gases leak from cracks, splinters, or holes in the heat exchanger. Combustion spillage can occur whenever fuel is burned. Even in small quantities, the toxic compounds can cause major health problems, and even be fatal. While fossil fuels are burning, harmful substances, such as the examples listed below, can be released.
– Volatile Organic Compounds
– Sulfur
– Nitrogen Dioxide
– Nitric Oxide
– Hydrocarbons
– Carbon Monoxide
– Carbon Dioxide
There are a number of circumstances that determine how much combustion gases are created, though heating equipment is designed to safely remove all of the combustion gases from the dwelling. With an efficient performing heat exchanger and ventilation system, none of the combustion gases should ever make it into the circulating air. It is not uncommon for combustion leakage to develop and the issue is that most combustion gases are odorless and colorless. For example, carbon monoxide, otherwise known as the silent killer, is colorless, tasteless, and odorless.

Why Combustion Gases Leak

The top 3 reasons of combustion gases leaking into a home are:
1) Negative pressure causing a backdraft and other pressure issues.
2) A cracked heat exchanger and other damaged equipment.
3) Vent or chimney dilemmas.

How Can a Furnace Heat Exchanger Be Examined for Damage? Professional Heating Inspection

Professional maintenance is essential for many reasons, but among them is to avoid heat exchanger hazards. The professional assesses the heat exchanger, ventilation system, and the over heating system during preventative maintenance services and ensures there isn’t any evidence of combustion gases leaking.

What Causes Hairline & Other Cracks in Furnace Heat Exchanger

Lack of maintenance, age, and other contributors cause heat exchangers to crack. When there is an excessive buildup of dirt and dust on the coils, filters, blowers, and heat exchanger, the air has difficulty passing through. With the obstructions in the path, the heat exchanger overheats, and it can potentially result in cracks and splinters. Another cause to a heat exchanger that has cracked is the gas pressure being too excessive. The pressure can be inadvertently adjusted as the pressure control valves wear down.

Heating Furnace Repair & More in Summerlin, North LV, Henderson, Enterprise, Paradise, Sunrise Manor, Spring Valley, Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Green Valley Ranch, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, Peccole Ranch, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas Nevada

A trained technician finds the crack on the heating exchanger during maintenance or if you suspect an issue. The most optimal method to know if you are leaking combustion gas is to install a carbon monoxide detector and respond if it goes off. Be sure to shut down the furnace and any other gas appliances and do not turn them back on until a trained professional gives you the clear. Typically, the heat exchanger can be replaced, however, it may require the entire furnace gets replaced. Call Air Supply Heating & Air Conditioning today for maintenance services or if you need assistance with your furnace producing combustion gases.