Housing combustion gases, the heat exchanger is made up of a network of coiled tubes. When the blower is switched on and the cool air flows over the heat exchanger, the air gets warm as it avoids contact with the dangerous gases. The plenum, or a sheet-metal box is where heated air rises, and this the plenum is connected to the air supply ducts. The air ducts then distribute that warmth in the throughout the home. To safely exit the house, the combustion gases produced during the heating process passes through the flue pipe. Today, we at Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning would like to continue to elaborate on the heat exchanger.

Danger of Carbon Monoxide Leaks from Cracked Heat Exchanger

Combustion gases are dangerous, and if the leak stays inside instead of being expelled, exposure can be a serious hazard. A heat exchanger with cracks, splinters, or holes will leak combustion gases. Whenever fuel is burned, combustion spillage can occur. The toxic compounds can lead to major health problems, and be fatal with even small doses. Harmful substances can be released while fossil fuels burn; volatile organic compounds, sulfur, nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide are a few examples. Though heating equipment is designed to safely remove all of the combustion gases from the house, there are several circumstances that determine how much combustion gases are created. None of the combustion gases should ever make it into the circulating air as long as heat exchanger and ventilation system are efficiently functioning. Most combustion gases are odorless and colorless, and it is not uncommon for combustion leakage to develop. For instance; a colorless, tasteless, and odorless “silent killer” is carbon monoxide.

Causes of Combustion Gas Leaks in House

Most common causes of combustion gases leaks:
1) A heat exchanger that is cracked and other damaged equipment.
2) Vent or chimney complications.
3) Backdraft caused by negative pressure and other pressure concerns.

Heat Exchanger Maintenance Procedures

Heat exchanger hazards are avoided with routinely scheduled professional maintenance services. During the maintenance services, the certified expert evaluates the heat exchanger, ventilation system, and the rest of the heating system and look for evidence of combustion gases leaks, among other things. Heat exchangers usually crack due to age, poor maintenance, and other such factors. The air has difficulty passing through in cases where there is an excessive buildup of dirt and dust on the filters, blowers, coils, and heat exchanger. These areas can become obstructed causing the heat exchanger to overheat, where it will likely splinter or crack. Extreme gas pressure can lead the heat exchanger cracking. As the pressure control valves wear down, the pressure can be inadvertently adjusted.

Furnace & Boiler Heating Services in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam Massachusetts

During tune-ups, inspections, and other maintenance services, a certified professional can detect any crack on the heating exchanger. If you have not already, be sure to install a carbon monoxide detector to catch potential dangers. Should it go off, turn off the furnace and other gas appliances and exit the home until responders arrive. Have a certified expert inspect the heat exchanger to make sure that is not the source, if it is, you will likely need to replace it. Be sure to schedule heating system maintenance services with Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning to protect the heat exchanger and your family.