Wednesday, 1 January 2014

When Is Furnace Repair An Option For Homeowners

By Melissa Wilson


No one wants to hear that his or her heating system is red tagged. This news means the gas utility worker or HVAC contractor has found a crack in the heat exchanger. By law, the system must be disabled until it is repaired or replaced, due to the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. At this point, the owner faces the choice of furnace repair or replacement.

Many things can add up to a crack in the heat exchanger. It may be the natural aging of the metal. However, a problem that is just as common is allowing the chamber to operate when dirty. This condition results in overheating, increasing the energy bills and causing cracks in the chamber.

Diagnosing the problem can be challenging; however, any time a Carbon Monoxide detector is activated and there are no apparent causes, the heating system should be inspected. Regular maintenance is a key to a clean system that does not prematurely fail. HVAC contractors can clean deeper than the homeowner is able.

When units are over the 10-15 year mark, replacement is often the best option. Older parts are more difficult to find and the repairs often cost more than the unit is worth. Today's units are more energy efficient and the replacement system will save energy.

With newer systems, repairs are sometimes an option. Parts can sometimes be difficult to locate and may take some time to be shipped. Owners should have a supplemental heat source that protects pipes and keeps occupants comfortable. Many of these newer units could still be under warranty.

Furnace repair for units that have been red tagged is often only an option for newer systems. Providing preventative maintenance may help to prevent this type of failure. Maintaining the system ensures the homeowner gets the most from his investment in a heating unit.




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