Cracked Heat Exchangers
Cracked Heat Exchangers | Heat Repair | Heating and Air Conditioning | Tellico Plains
When winter nights settle over Tellico Plains, a cracked heat exchanger can turn comfort into concern in an instant. HEP’s certified technicians know every make and model, arriving with the diagnostics, replacement parts, and safety expertise needed to restore warm, breathable air fast. From pinpointing carbon-monoxide leaks to recalibrating airflow for peak efficiency, we tackle the hidden issues others miss—so your family can trust every cycle of the furnace again.
Choose our trusted team for heat repair and you’ll get transparent pricing, same-day service options, and a workmanship guarantee backed by decades of local experience. Whether your system is gas, electric, or hybrid, HEP delivers meticulous craftsmanship and hometown courtesy that keeps Tellico Plains cozy all season long.
FAQs
What is a cracked heat exchanger, and why is it dangerous?
A heat exchanger is the sealed metal chamber inside your furnace that keeps the hot combustion gases separate from the air blown through your ducts. When it develops cracks, those combustion gases— including carbon monoxide— can leak into your home’s breathing air. Even tiny cracks can pose serious health and fire risks, so a cracked heat exchanger is considered a safety emergency that requires immediate professional attention.
What warning signs indicate my furnace may have a cracked heat exchanger?
Common clues include: a lingering metallic or formaldehyde-like odor, unexplained soot buildup or scorch marks around the furnace, visible corrosion or cracks on the heat exchanger cells, a yellow or wavering furnace flame instead of steady blue, frequent or unexplained tripping of the carbon-monoxide detector, and flu-like symptoms (headache, dizziness) among occupants when the heat is running. If you notice any of these, shut the system down and call for inspection right away.
Is it safe to keep running my furnace if I only suspect the heat exchanger is cracked?
No. Because a crack allows carbon monoxide and other combustion by-products to enter your living space, operating the furnace can quickly become life-threatening. Turn off the unit, open windows for ventilation if necessary, and schedule a professional heat exchanger evaluation. In Tellico Plains, our technicians offer 24/7 emergency service for precisely this situation.
Can a cracked heat exchanger be repaired, or does the furnace have to be replaced?
Most manufacturers and safety codes prohibit welding or patching a cracked exchanger because any repair could fail under high heat and pressure. In nearly all cases the exchanger— or the entire furnace if the part is no longer available— must be replaced. Our team will provide a camera inspection, document the damage, check warranty coverage, and give you clear options and pricing before any work begins.
How much does heat exchanger replacement or furnace replacement typically cost around Tellico Plains?
Costs vary with furnace age, efficiency rating, part availability, and labor time. Replacing just the heat exchanger on a newer, in-warranty unit may range from $800–$1,500. Out-of-warranty exchangers or complete furnace replacements typically range $3,000–$6,000 depending on size and efficiency. After an on-site assessment we supply a written quote and discuss financing or rebate options specific to Monroe County and TVA energy-efficiency programs.
What maintenance steps can I take to prevent heat exchanger failure in the future?
1) Change or clean furnace filters every 1–3 months so airflow stays adequate and heat doesn’t build up inside the exchanger. 2) Schedule professional tune-ups each fall; technicians test draft pressure, inspect burners, and measure combustion gases. 3) Keep supply and return vents unblocked to avoid overheating. 4) Install a quality CO detector on every level of your home. 5) Make sure gas pressure settings, venting, and blower speeds are checked annually— improper settings accelerate metal fatigue. These steps prolong furnace life and reduce the risk of cracks.