Regular Maintenance for A Heat Exchanger

Do you use a gas furnace to keep your home warm each winter, or an air conditioner to cool you down in the summer? 

If so, one of the most important parts of your system is the heat exchanger. It helps move heat safely, and making sure it’s maintained is essential for both the performance and safety of your HVAC system. 

Read on for our guide to understanding and maintaining this critical component. 

What Is A Heat Exchanger, And Why Is It Important? 

A heat exchanger moves heat from one place to another. In a gas furnace, it takes the heat created by burning fuel and transfers it to the air that warms your home. If it’s not working properly, your system can become inefficient, unsafe, and may eventually fail. 

Maintaining your heat exchanger is crucial because not only does it keep the system working, but it prevents problems like rust, dirt buildup and other damage that could cause costly repairs or replacements.

How Often Should You Service A Heat Exchanger?

It’s best to have your heat exchanger checked and cleaned at least once a year. If you already have routine HVAC maintenance, this is usually included. 

However, if your furnace isn’t performing well, you might need additional maintenance. 

Here are some signs that your heat exchanger might need attention: 

• Uneven heating
• Furnace runs constantly
• Strange noises
• Visible rust or leaks

Easy Heat Exchanger Maintenance Tips

During a professional tune-up, technicians will clean the heat exchanger, check for any damage, and make sure everything is working correctly. But there are a few things you can do to help keep it in good shape: 

• Keep it clean (Mechanical Cleaning). Regularly clear away any dust, dirt, or debris from the heat exchanger. This process can be time-consuming, but it’s essential to prevent buildup that could reduce performance. 
• Use chemical cleaning when needed. Using alkaline or acidic solutions can break down tough  buildup. It’s a faster process and reaches areas that mechanical cleaning can’t.

It’s also important to keep an eye out for damage during each cleaning session, like cracks or rust. Repairing a damaged heat exchanger can be expensive, and in many cases, replacing it might be necessary if the damage is too severe. 

Let Texas Pride AC & Heating Help

If you’re unsure about the condition of your heat exchanger, or need help with cleaning and maintenance, our team at Texas Pride AC & Heating is ready to assist. 

Give us a call at (713) 864-0110 to schedule a maintenance check and ensure your heat exchanger is in top shape for the season!