4 Signs a Furnace Has a Cracked Heat Exchanger in Newport News, VA

A gas furnace with a cracked heat exchanger is a potential hazard in your Newport News, VA, home. But the damage isn’t always easy to spot. Here are four warning signs that your furnace has a cracked heat exchanger.

1. The Entire Heating System Stinks

Bad smells can indicate a crack in the furnace heat exchanger. Some homeowners say the odor is like rancid pickles or formaldehyde. The fumes are toxic and prolonged exposure can cause illness.

If your system is producing a bad odor, contact a professional HVAC contractor for assistance. Your furnace is likely causing the problem.

2. The Furnace Flame Changes Color

A furnace flame is normally blue. A steady blue flame means the heat exchanger is working well. If the color changes, that’s a warning sign the furnace is faulty.

A yellow flame can indicate a cracked heat exchanger. It could also mean the burner needs cleaning. Your best option is to contact an HVAC technician for furnace maintenance.

3. Soot Is Everywhere

A cracked heat exchanger can cause a furnace to produce excessive soot. If there’s a lot of carbon inside the HVAC system, the furnace produces soot. And this can happen if the furnace fails to burn gas the way it should.

4. Visible Cracks and Corrosion

Visible wear and tear on the outside of a furnace usually indicate internal damage as well. Generally speaking, wear and tear don’t just happen on the outside. If the furnace is old, the heat exchanger may have started to crack.

If your furnace has several cracks and rust, it may be time for a new heater. There are possibly several problems, including a cracked heat exchanger.

Contact Lighthouse Mechanical Heating and Cooling for furnace repair and heating services. With our 24-hour service, we’re available anytime you need HVAC services.