If a homeowner receives the news that his heating system has been red tagged it is never good news. However, when gas utility workers or HVAC contractors finds a crack in the heat exchanger he or she is required by law to disable the unit until the part is replaced of a new system is installed. The crack allows carbon monoxide, an odorless but deadly gas to enter the home. Owners face the choice of furnace repair or replacement at this point.
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.
Diagnosis of the problem is often challenging, but if a CO detector sounds off without other apparent causes, one should have the unit examined. The regular maintenance keeps the unit working cleanly and may prevent premature failure. An HVAC contractor helps by cleaning parts the owner cannot access.
As units age beyond the ten year mark, they move to the point that replacement is the best option. Older parts are often impossible to find and repairs more expensive than their value. The new unit will be more energy efficient an help to pay for itself in lower operating costs.
If the system is newer, making repairs may be an option. Even so, it is sometimes difficult to get the needed parts. Owners will want to have a dependable supplemental heat source to protect plumbing and keep occupants comfortable. Fortunately, many newer units are still under the manufacturer's warranty.
Furnace repair for red tagged units is best with newer systems. The best way to prevent this type of failure is to provide annual maintenance of the system. This ensures longest life of the investment a homeowner makes in a heating unit.
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.
Diagnosis of the problem is often challenging, but if a CO detector sounds off without other apparent causes, one should have the unit examined. The regular maintenance keeps the unit working cleanly and may prevent premature failure. An HVAC contractor helps by cleaning parts the owner cannot access.
As units age beyond the ten year mark, they move to the point that replacement is the best option. Older parts are often impossible to find and repairs more expensive than their value. The new unit will be more energy efficient an help to pay for itself in lower operating costs.
If the system is newer, making repairs may be an option. Even so, it is sometimes difficult to get the needed parts. Owners will want to have a dependable supplemental heat source to protect plumbing and keep occupants comfortable. Fortunately, many newer units are still under the manufacturer's warranty.
Furnace repair for red tagged units is best with newer systems. The best way to prevent this type of failure is to provide annual maintenance of the system. This ensures longest life of the investment a homeowner makes in a heating unit.
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