FHA

Mark_46

hvac64,

Thanks for the feedback.

So, a steel HX plus a combo of age and moisture which is a byproduct of natural gas, correct? All these add up to what is probably a normal condition. I think the inspector noted that the flame was even and consistent.

Mark_46

Rusty exchanger

I have a friend who is purchasing a townhouse. The inspection was completed today and one thing that was noted is there are rust flakes that perhaps fell loose from the heat exchanger. I dont have much specific info on the furnace other than its about 12 years old.

Is a little rust, or any rust normal on a FHA heat exchanger?

tom_49

On units that old, it probalbly has a steel HX,so a little rust is normal. The rust is caused by the exhaust gases which are loaded with moisture.

Check to see if the rust flakes have fallen down on the burner tubes, this can cause the flame to "roll-out" into the burner compartment.

S Ebels

Normal..........maybe, safe..........????

I would advise your friend to have a heating contractor check it out if he's concerned about it. There are decent home inspectors out there but for the most part they can't tell you what a good HVAC guy can. It's the same as asking a general practitioner a question about brain surgery. He probably knows quite a bit but what he doesn't know will kill you.

Mark_46

LOL

S Ebels,

Thanks.

Your brain surgery comparison is too funny. I'll pass the info on.