Your furnace works hard to keep your home comfortable during cooler desert nights, but what happens when something inside it starts to fail quietly?
One of the most serious furnace problems homeowners face is heat exchanger failure. Knowing the warning signs early can protect your comfort, your budget, and most importantly, your safety.
So what should you be watching for?
Changes In The Burner Flame
Have you ever taken a quick look at your furnace flame? A healthy flame should burn steady and blue. If you notice the flame turning yellow or orange, that is a red flag.
This color change often points to improper combustion caused by airflow issues inside the heat exchanger.
Another sign is a flame that flickers or moves when the blower turns on. This usually means air is escaping through a crack in the exchanger, pushing the flame out of place.
Strange Smells And Soot Buildup
Do you smell something sharp or chemical when your furnace runs? Many homeowners describe it as a formaldehyde-type odor. This smell can come from gases leaking through a damaged heat exchanger.
You might also notice black or white soot collecting near the furnace cabinet or vent pipe. That buildup means fuel is not burning cleanly, which is another strong indicator that the heat exchanger is failing.
Unusual Noises From The Furnace
Does your furnace make popping or rattling sounds when it starts heating? As metal heats and cools, cracks inside the heat exchanger expand and contract. That movement often creates noises you do not normally hear during regular operation.
These sounds usually happen right after the system kicks on and should never be ignored.
Health And Safety Warning Signs
This is where things get serious. A cracked heat exchanger can allow combustion gases to mix with the air inside your home. If your carbon monoxide detector goes off or shows repeated low-level readings, it is a major warning sign.
You may also notice headaches, dizziness, nausea, or fatigue that seem to improve when you leave the house. These symptoms should always be taken seriously and addressed immediately.
Visible Rust Or Moisture Around The Unit
Rust or corrosion on furnace components often points to more serious internal damage. In some cases, you may even see moisture pooling around the base of the unit due to improper heat transfer.
Trust Scottsdale Air Heating & Cooling For Help
If you suspect any of these issues, Scottsdale Air Heating & Cooling is here to help. Our local technicians know what to look for and how to keep your home safe and comfortable. Schedule an inspection today and get peace of mind from a trusted Scottsdale team.