For homeowners in the GTA and York region, a well-functioning furnace is crucial to get through the winter months comfortably. Therefore, if you find that your furnace is not functioning as efficiently as usual, it is important to address the issue promptly. A common cause of performance issues with furnaces is the deterioration of the heat exchanger.
What is a Furnace Heat Exchanger?
A furnace heat exchanger is a metal component found in furnaces that acts as a barrier between toxic combustion gases and the air that you breathe. It also transfers the heat from the combustion process, allowing it to spread throughout the house for your optimal warmth and comfort.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Furnace Heat Exchanger
If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time for you to consider replacing your furnace heat exchanger:
Unusual odours – Strange odours, such as a rotten egg smell, is often indicative of a gas leak or broken heat exchanger.
Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms – Telltale symptoms of carbon monoxide include unusual nausea or fatigue, dizziness, and headaches. A damaged heat exchanger can allow harmful gases to spread throughout your house. In turn, this may cause carbon monoxide poisoning. A carbon monoxide alarm would alert to a potential leak.
Black deposits around your furnace or vents – The deposits are often the result of incomplete combustion caused by a broken heat exchanger.
Uneven heating – A damaged heat exchanger can affect your furnace's ability to properly transfer heat, resulting in lower heating efficiency.
Rising utility bills – If the heat exchanger is damaged, your furnace will be pushed to work harder to keep your home warm, thus increasing your energy consumption and utility bills.
Signs of rust or corrosion – If you notice signs of rust or corrosion on the heat exchanger of your furnace, it’s important to promptly get it replaced.
Do you need to replace or install a furnace or heat exchanger for your home in the GTA or York region? Black Forest Heating is here to help!
The Dangers of a Damaged Heat Exchanger and Why You Should Repair or Replace It Promptly
Here are some reasons why it’s important to promptly replace or repair a damaged heat exchanger:
Health risks – A damaged heat exchanger can result in carbon monoxide leaks. If inhaled in high concentrations, this can be fatal.
Costly repairs – Not only will a broken heat exchanger cause your furnace to operate inefficiently, but it may also result in more serious issues that require far costlier repairs. You may even have to replace the whole furnace in the event of a severe breakdown.
If you suspect that your furnace heat exchanger is damaged, we recommend getting in touch with a trusted HVAC technician as soon as possible.
Do You Need Help with the Replacement of a Furnace Heat Exchanger in the GTA?
Serving homeowners in the GTA and York region, Black Forest Heating provides a wide range of heating solutions including in Toronto, Aurora and Barrie. We can also help you with the installation of a new furnace, as well as the swift replacement of a broken or deteriorating heat exchanger. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.