If your home is like most throughout the Roswell area and beyond, then you use a furnace for your heating needs. Most furnaces in the Des Moines area are used for home heating, and our company has extensive experience serving Des Moines homeowners. In addition to furnaces, we also service a variety of heating systems to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
Given that gas is so widely available, it’s very likely this heating system is gas-powered. In fact, most furnaces in Des Moines homes are gas-powered due to the local climate and fuel availability. A gas furnace produces a large amount of heat, and it does so at less expense than using an electric furnace, since natural gas costs less than electricity per unit.
However, there’s a potential hazard with using a gas furnace. We aren’t saying that to scare you, gas furnaces are not inherently dangerous, after all, especially with all the safety features built into today’s models. But older furnaces or furnaces that haven’t been well cared for over the years have one specific danger that needs to be watched for, a cracked heat exchanger.
Introduction to Furnace Replacement
Furnace replacement is a vital step in maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home, particularly in colder climates where reliable heating is essential. As gas furnaces and other heating systems age, their ability to efficiently produce heat diminishes, often resulting in rising energy bills and inconsistent comfort. Replacing an old furnace with a modern, energy efficient model can dramatically improve your home’s heating system, reducing both energy consumption and costs. With a variety of options available, including gas furnaces, electric furnaces, and heat pumps, selecting the right furnace for your home is crucial. An experienced HVAC technician can guide you through the furnace replacement process, helping you choose a cost effective solution that matches your heating needs and ensures your system operates at peak efficiency. Whether you’re dealing with an old furnace that struggles to keep up or simply want to upgrade to a more efficient system, replacing your furnace is an investment in comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings.
What Does a Furnace Heat Exchanger Actually Do?
This is essentially what enables a furnace to heat up the air that travels through the ventilation system. When the burners of the furnace come up, they generate hot combustion gas, which is collected inside the heat exchanger, a metal chamber or series of chambers. For more insights, check out what you should know about your gas furnace heat exchanger to understand its critical role in heating and safety.
The hot combustion gas in the heat exchanger heats up the metal walls, and the blower fan of your furnace comes on and sends air around the exchanger, where it picks up the heat from the furnace wall and continues into the ductwork. In this way, the combustion gas heats the air without the gas ever needing to come in contact with it.
Once this heating process is finished, the combustion byproducts in the heat exchanger are vented out of the system through a flue, to release the gas harmlessly into the air.
Types of Furnaces
When it’s time for furnace replacement, understanding your options is key to keeping your home comfortable and your energy bills in check. The most common types of furnaces found in homes today are gas furnaces, electric furnaces, and oil furnaces, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Replacing a furnace often involves additional expenses such as removal and disposal of the old unit, building permits, and necessary HVAC system changes. The furnace replacement process includes removal of the old unit and installation of the new unit, ensuring your home is equipped with a reliable heating system.
Gas furnaces are a popular choice for many homeowners, especially in areas with easy access to natural gas lines. These systems use natural gas to produce heat efficiently and are often considered a cost effective solution thanks to lower fuel costs and high energy efficiency. Gas furnaces are known for their strong heating output, making them ideal for colder climates and homes that need to stay warm during extremely cold weather.
Electric furnaces use electricity to generate heat and are typically less expensive to install than their gas counterparts. While electric furnaces can be a good fit for homes without access to natural gas, they may lead to higher energy bills, especially during peak heating season. However, electric furnaces are often praised for their quiet operation and lower maintenance needs.
Oil furnaces are less common these days but still serve as a reliable heating system in some regions. They use oil to produce heat and can deliver powerful heating capacity, but they tend to require more frequent maintenance and can be more costly to operate due to fluctuating oil prices.
Beyond these traditional options, newer models like high efficiency furnaces and modulating furnaces are changing the game. High efficiency furnaces are designed to minimize heat loss and maximize energy efficiency, helping homeowners achieve long term savings and reduce their environmental impact. Modulating furnaces, on the other hand, can adjust their heating output to match your home’s desired temperature, resulting in more consistent temperatures and improved efficiency throughout the heating season. Unlike traditional furnaces that operate at full capacity whenever they are on, modulating furnaces dynamically adjust their output, which leads to greater energy efficiency, enhanced comfort, and longer system life.
When selecting a new furnace, it’s important to consider your home’s heating system, the local climate, and your goals for energy efficiency. Upgrading to a brand new furnace offers several advantages, including the latest technology, improved energy efficiency, and access to potential financial incentives or rebates. In colder climates, a furnace with higher heating capacity may be necessary to ensure your home stays warm even during the harshest winter days. Features like variable-speed motors or multi-stage heating can improve comfort and reduce energy usage. Installation cost is another factor, while some systems may have a higher upfront price, their improved efficiency can lead to lower heating bills and fewer repairs over time.
Consulting with an experienced HVAC technician is the best way to determine the right furnace for your needs. A professional can assess your home’s requirements, recommend the best furnace for optimal performance, and ensure it’s installed correctly for maximum efficiency and safety. Post-installation maintenance tips help keep the new furnace running efficiently, ensuring long-term performance and reliability. Regular maintenance is also essential to keep your new system running smoothly, prevent unexpected breakdowns, and extend the life of your investment.
For homeowners looking for even more versatility, heat pumps can be a smart choice, as they provide both heating and cooling in one unit. And if you’re focused on energy efficiency, look for furnaces with a high AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating, these models are designed to deliver improved efficiency and help you save on energy bills year after year.
Ultimately, choosing the right furnace and keeping up with regular maintenance will help you enjoy a warm, comfortable home, lower your energy bills, and avoid costly repairs, no matter how cold it gets outside. A well-maintained furnace typically operates efficiently for about 10 years, making regular maintenance a key factor in extending its lifespan.
Warning Signs of a Damaged Heat Exchanger
Since the metal of a heat exchanger expands and contracts as it heats and cools, and also since furnaces can accumulate a lot of wear and tear over the years from natural causes, the strain eventually can cause a crack to form on the heat exchanger. Corrosion, due to the reaction between the combustion gas and the metal, can also weaken the metal to the point that it cracks. This is often due to improper venting, which is one of the many problems that is checked for during furnace maintenance. An old furnace experiencing frequent repairs may be at higher risk for heat exchanger cracks.
Regular inspections during furnace repair and maintenance service can catch early signs of corrosion or venting issues before they lead to cracks. Additionally, technicians can verify that your system’s combustion process is functioning efficiently, reducing the risk of incomplete combustion, which not only causes corrosion but can also increase carbon monoxide production.
Regular maintenance is crucial to catch early signs of these issues. During a professional inspection, technicians can assess whether buildup, poor airflow, or blocked exhaust vents are increasing the likelihood of corrosion. If a furnace requires frequent repairs, the furnace may be nearing the end of its useful life. Addressing these concerns early not only prevents cracks but also helps your furnace operate more efficiently, lowering energy costs over time by supporting proper home heating system efficiency.
Beyond corrosion, poor airflow in your furnace system can exacerbate wear and tear on the heat exchanger. When airflow is restricted, whether due to a dirty air filter or blocked vents, it causes the furnace to overheat. Over time, this repeated overheating can stress the metal and increase the likelihood of cracks forming in the exchanger, making timely residential furnace repair service essential to avoid system failure.
The cracks might be very small, but since the exchanger expands with the heat, the cracks open enough to allow some of the combustion gasses to escape and enter your airflow. The gas you should be concerned with is carbon monoxide, it is tasteless and odorless, and in severe cases even deadly. If you’ve noticed any unusual heater behavior, such as odd sounds, refer to heater noises you don’t want haunting you to identify potential warning signs.
Beyond carbon monoxide, leaking combustion gases can also include nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide, which may irritate respiratory systems even in small quantities. Prolonged exposure to these gases, especially in homes with inadequate ventilation, can exacerbate symptoms for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions. This further highlights the importance of addressing any damage to your heat exchanger promptly. If the damage is extensive, the old furnace may need to be replaced rather than repaired.
Another critical concern with a damaged heat exchanger is the potential for reduced furnace efficiency. Cracks disrupt the heat transfer process, meaning your system has to work harder to provide the same level of warmth. Over time, this can lead to higher energy bills and unnecessary strain on other furnace components, increasing the likelihood of system breakdowns. Replacing a damaged furnace can restore efficient operation and prevent further issues.
Aside from carbon monoxide, escaping combustion gases can also introduce moisture into your system, leading to rust and further corrosion. This can create a cycle of damage that not only impacts the heat exchanger but can also compromise other critical components of your furnace, making timely repairs even more essential.
When deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace, other factors, such as the age of the furnace and the frequency of repairs, should also be considered. Most furnaces have a lifespan of 20–30 years, and after about 15 years, significant problems and frequent repairs may necessitate replacement, as older systems often become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
How to Identify a Cracked Heat Exchanger in Your Furnace
First, we can’t stress enough how important it is to have a carbon monoxide (CO) detector in your home. So that if a cracked heat exchanger does allow this harmful gas in, you’ll be alerted to it right away. CO occurs naturally in our environment, but when it’s leaking into your sealed up home, it becomes a health and safety hazard.
Another important precaution is scheduling annual furnace inspections and tune-ups. These proactive measures allow HVAC professionals to detect early signs of wear and tear, such as hairline cracks or improper ventilation, before they escalate into significant safety or efficiency concerns. Preventive furnace maintenance is a long-term investment for homeowners, helping to extend the life of the system and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.
While a CO detector is your first line of defense, visual cues can also point to a cracked heat exchanger. Rust or soot buildup near the furnace, or a yellow burner flame instead of a steady blue one, may indicate incomplete combustion or a leak. These signs should prompt an immediate call to a professional to avoid potential hazards.
Aside from ensuring the proper precautions are in place, you should also listen for a clicking soon after the blower shuts off. This is a sign of a CO leak and cracked heat exchanger. Even if you only suspect there may be a problem, it’s always best to call in a pro to investigate. If your furnace has been running for years, learn how long you can expect your furnace to last to assess whether repair or replacement is the better option. If the damage is severe, it may be more cost-effective to replace the furnace rather than continue with repairs.
Be mindful of sudden increases in heating bills, as these can be a subtle indicator of a cracked heat exchanger. A compromised exchanger often forces your furnace to work harder to maintain desired temperatures, leading to inefficiency and higher energy usage. Addressing these signs promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your home remains safe and warm. HVAC technicians can assess whether furnace installation or repair is the best option for your Des Moines home.
Other signs to watch for include unusual smells, such as a strong or sharp odor near your furnace, which could indicate escaping combustion gases. Additionally, if you notice uneven heating throughout your home or rising energy bills without a clear explanation, these could also point to a compromised heat exchanger. Acting quickly when you spot these warning signs can prevent more serious issues down the line. If you decide to replace your furnace, keep in mind that installation costs are a significant part of the total expense, and these costs can vary for West Des Moines homeowners depending on the type of furnace installation required. The average cost to replace a furnace is approximately $4,771, with prices typically ranging from $2,825 to $6,846.
In addition to listening for unusual noises, keep an eye out for physical symptoms among household members, such as headaches, dizziness, or fatigue. These could indicate low-level carbon monoxide exposure from a compromised heat exchanger. If multiple people experience these symptoms at the same time, evacuate the home immediately and contact emergency services before seeking professional furnace repair. Replacing furnaces with modern heating systems can offer the best value in the long run, considering not just upfront costs but also energy savings, reliability, and overall satisfaction.
Benefits of a New Furnace
Upgrading to a new furnace offers a host of benefits that go beyond simply keeping your home warm. Newer furnaces, such as high efficiency furnaces and modulating furnaces, are designed to deliver improved efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills and more consistent temperatures throughout your home, even during extremely cold weather. These advanced systems operate more quietly, provide enhanced safety features, and significantly reduce the risk of carbon monoxide leaks and unexpected breakdowns. By installing a new, energy efficient furnace, you not only enjoy optimal performance and greater comfort, but you also contribute to a more sustainable environment. Many high efficiency furnaces may qualify for government rebates or incentives, adding to your long term savings. With regular maintenance, your new furnace will continue to operate efficiently for years, providing reliable heat and peace of mind no matter how harsh the winter gets.
Furnace Replacement Process
The furnace replacement process starts with a thorough assessment of your home’s heating system, including the current furnace, ductwork, and electrical wiring. An HVAC technician will evaluate your home’s heating capacity requirements and recommend the best furnace to meet your specific needs. Once you’ve selected the right unit, the technician will remove the old furnace and install the new one, ensuring proper connections to your existing ductwork and natural gas lines. Professional installation is essential for maximizing efficiency, minimizing energy bills, and ensuring the safety of your heating system. After the new furnace is installed, the technician will test the system to confirm it’s operating correctly and provide you with guidance on maintenance and optimal operation. This careful approach ensures your new furnace delivers reliable, efficient heat for years to come.
Furnace Replacement Costs
Furnace replacement costs can vary significantly based on the type and size of the furnace, installation costs, and any necessary upgrades to your existing heating system. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $3,000 and $12,000 for a new furnace, including installation. While this may seem like a substantial investment, the improved furnace efficiency, increased heating capacity, and reduced energy bills that come with a new furnace make it a cost effective solution over time. When considering furnace replacement, it’s important to factor in not just the upfront installation costs, but also the long term savings from lower energy bills and reduced maintenance needs. Consulting with an HVAC technician can help you understand the full scope of costs and benefits, ensuring you choose the most cost effective and efficient system for your home.
Working with a Professional
Partnering with a professional HVAC technician is essential for a successful furnace replacement. A qualified technician will help you navigate the complexities of selecting the right furnace, taking into account your home’s heating requirements, budget, and existing infrastructure. They’ll ensure your new furnace is installed safely and efficiently, with proper connections to natural gas lines, electrical wiring, and ductwork. Beyond installation, a professional can provide valuable advice on maintenance and operation, helping you maximize the efficiency and lifespan of your new furnace. By choosing an experienced HVAC company, you can be confident that your furnace replacement will be handled with expertise, resulting in a comfortable, energy efficient home and long-term peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are the warning signs of a cracked heat exchanger?
Answer: Look out for a yellow or flickering flame instead of a steady blue one, soot or rust around the furnace, strange chemical or formaldehyde-like odors, water pooling nearby, and physical symptoms like headaches or dizziness among household members. Acting quickly can prevent serious safety hazards.
Question: Why is a cracked heat exchanger dangerous?
Answer: It can allow carbon monoxide and other harmful combustion gases to leak into your home, posing serious risks including poisoning, fire hazards, and significantly higher energy bills due to reduced furnace efficiency.
Question: What causes a heat exchanger to crack?
Answer: Cracks typically develop over time from metal fatigue due to repeated heating and cooling cycles, corrosion from moisture, excessive strain caused by improper furnace sizing, poor airflow, and lack of regular maintenance.
Question: Can I keep using the furnace if the heat exchanger is cracked?
Answer: No. Continuing to run the furnace with a cracked heat exchanger is unsafe. It increases the risk of carbon monoxide exposure, potential fire, and further system failure. You should shut it off and contact a professional immediately.
Question: What should I do if I suspect a cracked heat exchanger?
Answer: Immediately turn off your furnace and evacuate if carbon monoxide alarms are triggered or anyone feels unwell. Then schedule a certified HVAC technician inspection. Depending on the age and condition, you may need a heat exchanger or entire furnace replacement.
When you need quality furnace repair in Roswell, GA, contact DC Cheek Heating, Cooling & Plumbing—Fixed, at the Speed of Life!
