Steps to Take for a Cracked Furnace Heat Exchanger

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the basics on the signs and potential issues associated with a cracked furnace heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is a vital part of the furnace, collecting combustion gas and allowing for heat transfer, and a crack in it is not only a risk to your furnace’s operations, but also to your health and your building.

At My Buddy Heating and Air, we’re proud to offer numerous furnace repair and furnace replacement services for those dealing with any furnace issues, including a cracked heat exchanger. Today’s part two of our series will go over what might have caused a cracked heat exchanger, plus how to properly remedy the situation and how our HVAC professionals will help.

What’s Causing It?

Why has a crack formed in your heat exchanger? The single most common reason is overheating, which usually takes place because the airflow in the system is not optimal, generally due to a buildup of dust and other debris that blocks the furnace filter. Airflow is one of many areas we help ensure is working properly during HVAC inspections – those who do not schedule these inspections yearly may deal with these kinds of issues more often.

In other cases, the control valves may have worn down, and this will cause the crack. This is because this effect leads to increased pressure in the system, eventually to a point that the exchanger cannot hold up to, and it will crack as a result. Once again, this is an issue that regular yearly furnace inspection helps prevent.

Repair or Replace?

If you’ve confirmed a cracked heat exchanger is the issue taking place in your furnace, the big question is whether this should be repaired or replaced. Much of this choice will come down to the state of the furnace itself – some furnaces might still be in very good shape, allowing our team to simply trade out or even repair the exchanger and remedy the issue for a low cost.

In other cases, however, the cracked heat exchanger will actually signal an aging furnace. Repairs might solve the issue temporarily, but it will be back before long. In such situations, our HVAC technicians will recommend to you when simply replacing the furnace is the more cost-effective move.

Professional Assistance

One major note here: We strongly advise against attempting any repairs or replacement to a cracked furnace heat exchanger or any related issue if you don’t have specialized HVAC training. Not only will you be risking the quality of the system, you’ll be putting your health and safety at risk as well. Call on our licensed, trained HVAC professionals for this job.

For more on how to deal with a cracked heat exchanger in your furnace, or to learn about any of our HVAC services, speak to the staff at My Buddy Heating and Air today.