What to do if your heat exchanger is bad?

There are only two options if a Heat Exchanger is bad: Replace the heat exchanger or replace the furnace. The other factors are energy efficiency and cost of service which can make replacing the furnace a preferable option even if the furnace is under warranty and available.

How much does it cost to replace a furnace exchanger?

February 22, 2018. Were you recently told that your furnace heat exchanger is cracked and needs to be replaced? If so, here’s the thing: replacing a heat exchanger isn’t as simple or affordable as it sounds. In fact, replacing a furnace heat exchanger can take up to 8 hours and can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500.

Why does my furnace heat exchanger keep breaking?

This expansion/contraction cycle is part of the normal furnace heating process. Over time this constant expansion and contraction has the same effect on a heat exchanger that bending a paperclip back and forth: it breaks. And when that happens contamination occurs and it is no longer safe.

How can I see the heat exchanger on my furnace?

Use of a mirror and a flashlight is adequate for the accessible spots, however the majority of the heat exchanger can’t be seen. If the technician uses an infrared video inspection system you get as close to fool-proof as possible short of totally dismantling the furnace and removing the heat exchanger.

Why does my heat exchanger have a hole in it?

Rusting of the heat exchanger can lead to holes or cracks that allow carbon monoxide to leak into your home. Rust on a heat exchanger can be a result of the furnace sitting idle, but it can also develop if the furnace is short-cycling—that is, not running long enough each time it comes on.

Is it dangerous to have an old heat exchanger?

If your home has an older furnace—15-20 years old or more—then it’s extremely important for you to be aware of the potential danger posed by an old heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is the heart of the furnace. When it fails, it doesn’t just leave you without heat. It can create a very dangerous, even deadly situation.

Can a heat exchanger leak carbon monoxide into the air?

(This is incorrect!) Residential 80% furnaces made in the last 30 years with air-conditioning coils on the discharge (outlet) of the furnace do NOT allow carbon monoxide to enter the indoor air stream. Period!

What to do if your furnace heat exchanger is cracked?

If you believe that your furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, you shouldn’t rush to fix it yourself. Once you’ve verified the furnace heat exchanger crack symptoms, you need to contact a professional HVAC contractor to inspect the furnace.