Having rust on the furnace is one of the issues that causes serious concerns to most homeowners. Many of our clients often ask how this is possible if a furnace does not use water to generate heat. This is not a strange occurrence for an old system and might be a sign that a replacement is due. However, if your HVAC system is just a few years old and still serviceable, then you might need to consult Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing specialists to evaluate the situation.
The Main Causes of Rust on a Furnace
Although it might take some time for the rust to cause any serious problems, we recommend that you consult a professional for expert advice. There is the probability that your furnace might require some repair work done by our technicians to contain the rust. Alternatively, you might be required to replace the entire HVAC system if it is old or the issue is unresolvable. Either way, you will need the expertise of our seasoned technicians as furnace installations and repairs are things that you should not do on your own.
1. The Reaction of Gas Combustion
The rust on a furnace is caused by what happens when oxygen, metal, and water mix. The gas in a heat exchanger of a gas furnace turns into liquid vapor as it cools down. The interaction of combustion gases with your metal furnace slowly develops rust. Although proper ventilation can minimize this, with years of exposure to combustion gases, rust will eventually develop, and by this time your furnace needs replacement anyway.
2. Furnace Exhaust issues
The hot air produced in the heat cycle cools after leaving the burner and creates moisture. If the venting of your furnace is not reliable, then a lot of this moisture will accumulate, leading to rust. The less efficient the ventilation, the faster the rust will develop on your furnace. Such an issue would require the attention of a Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing specialist to investigate the venting issues.
3. Humidity & Moisture
Although the furnace does not use water to produce heat, moisture from the outside can enter a furnace via the return air ducts and lead to rusting. This is more likely during rainy seasons when moisture can come into the furnace and trigger a chemical reaction. Likewise, if there are humid sections of your house from where it can draw in the humid air, then rust is bound to occur.
4. Leaking Air Conditioner
Most HVAC systems at home have the air conditioner sitting on top of the furnace for both units to use the same blower. The AC naturally creates water condensation that drains to a condensation pan. If the pan overflows, then the water will drip onto the furnace, creating rust. Such a situation requires you to call Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing technicians to come and repair both units.
What Is the Meaning of Rust on a Furnace
When you spot rust on your furnace, don’t just assume that it is from a nearby moisture source. It could be an indication of a serious internal issue that requires our experienced American Fork technicians’ attention. Rust eats away at the metal and eventually causes it to flake, crumble, and crack. When rust appears on the heat exchanger, it could mean that the part might crack at any time. This will lead to the infiltration of toxic combustion gases like carbon monoxide into your home.
How to Prevent and Resolve Rust Infestation
The first thing that you should consider when you spot rust on your furnace is its age. If your HVAC system is more than 15 years old, then the best solution is to contact Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing to schedule a new furnace installation. For newer furnaces that are not yet 10 years old, then regular maintenance and minor repairs are enough prevention.
Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing is a reputable company that has been in the heating, cooling, and plumbing industry for more than 100 years. We have provided American Fork residents with the best quality HVAC services and our plumbers are specialists in eradicating leaks that lead to rust. Our large team of highly experienced technicians performs intensive furnace tune-ups and inspections of your HVAC system. In the process, they will handle any rust issues on your furnace.
If you are a resident of American Fork or its vicinity, then you can rely on Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing for all your HVAC needs. We can perform furnace repair, installation, and maintenance. We also offer AC repair, installation, and maintenance as well as indoor air quality and plumbing services. Call Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing today at (801) 692-0858 for a lasting solution to all your household or commercial HVAC and plumbing issues.
