If you're using a gas furnace, the heat exchanger is the part responsible for heating air that circulates around your home. Remember that your heat exchanger cycles between being cooled and heated, which can lead to wear and tear over time. Eventually, it can crack due to stress and fatigue. Even the smallest crack from your heat exchanger can expose you and your family to carbon monoxide. Here are the signs to pay attention to so that you can seek timely heating services.

Your Notice A Lot Of Soot Build-Up In Your Furnace

When a lot of burnt carbon builds up in your heating system, your furnace will produce a lot of soot. This happens because your furnace doesn't burn the gas complexly, commonly called incomplete combustion. This may happen for various reasons, including improperly adjusted burners. Still, a crack on your heat exchanger can lead to the accumulation of soot in your furnace. Seek quick intervention from an experienced heating professional when you notice soot in your furnace, or you could end up replacing your furnace.

Your Furnace Is Too Big For Your Home

If you install a furnace that's big for your home, you'll start to notice cracks on your heat exchanger after some time. In addition, it will turn off and on frequently which causes unusual contraction and expansion, leading to premature cracks. The other common issue with large furnaces is condensation buildup, particularly if it has remained unused for a long time. Unlike in a correctly sized furnace, the condensation that builds in the heat exchange stays longer before evaporating. This causes rusting of your heat exchanger walls, leading to a crack. So, if your furnace turns on and off frequently, seek timely furnace repair services.

You Notice Unusual Smells Coming From Your Furnace

If you have an ineffective heat exchanger, it will produce a chemical smell. When you notice this odor and don't address it on time, you'll begin to feel symptoms like nausea and headaches. On the first sign of an unusual smell, switch off your furnace and contact a reputable furnace repair technician. Such professionals will check the condition of your heat exchanger and advise on the need for repair and replacement.

Your furnace depends on the heat exchanger to effectively heat your home. If it develops issues, it can cause your furnace to break down, and this can cause serious health concerns. So, when you notice any of the signs mentioned above, don't hesitate to contact a certified furnace repair technician.