Furnace Inspection
To the Editor:
I consider Richard Trethewey the
premier ambassador for our industry. I
would add one item to the maintenance
checklist in his article "Heating
System Tuneups" (2/96): namely, to
check for heat exchanger perforations
or leaks.
Generally, perforations in boiler
heat exchangers show readily. Cracks
or holes in furnaces are sneakier and
more dangerous but should be searched
for on an annual basis. Anyone can
check for perforations visually with a
light and a mirror. If imperfections are
found, a professional should be called.
Sometimes these will evidence themselves
by a wavering flame, caused by
air from the fan side impinging upon
the flame.
Whenever we suspect a bad heat
exchanger, we'll do a smoke test in
addition to