Cracked heat exchanger-Meridian Idaho

Cracked Heat exchanger

The call was for no heat in the kitchen ( cracked heat exchanger ).  When we got to the restaurant it was 56 degrees in the kitchen.  Upon checking the unit we found a safety switch had been tripped.  Upon resetting we found the flames rolling out violently on all 4 burners.  This had to be caused from a crack, but usually the flames would not be so violent and not on every burner.  We always verify a crack so we took the unit apart to make sure this was the issue.  Upon inspecting we discovered that not only were all 4 heat exchangers cracked but the cracks were 6″ to 10″ long.  The seems appear to have rusted through on the lower half of every cell.  This was producing a massive amount of air to be pushed through the cracks and into the cabinet.  Thus causing the safety switch to trip.

The Fix

The correction on this was to replace the entire exchanger, and gaskets. Then installing a high altitude kit.  Here in Meridian we are at 2800 feet above sea level, because of this the factory recommends a high altitude kit be installed.   This will assure the furnace does not over fire.  Which can be the cause of a premature cracked heat exchanger.  After installing the new exchanger and all needed gaskets, we checked the units operation.  All is now working fine. Here is a link to more information about carbon monoxide.

Carbon Monoxide

It should be noted that we took a carbon monoxide reading inside the restaurant during the initial inspection and found no traces.  Due to the design and the placement of the cracks.  No carbon monoxide was entering into the space it was all being blown back toward the burner cabinet and then to the outside air.  Please remember whether you have a restaurant or a home it is VERY important you have several carbon monoxide detectors.   Carbon monoxide detector are inexpensive and easy to install, most simply plug into a wall outlet.  These $24 items could save your life and the life of others.  Also if you have gas appliances it is always a good idea to have them checked for proper operation on a regular basis.  We recommend having your furnace cleaned and checked every 2 years to keep it running safe and efficient. Call (208)938-2000 Today

split heat exchanger