burner

Heat Exchanger Service

Critical inspection and service for indirect-fired paint

Function

Transfers heat from combustion gases to supply air without direct flame contact

Location

Inside indirect-fired makeup air unit

Typical Lifespan

15-25 years; requires annual inspection

Call (877) 489-3727 Get Service Quote

Service Options

Repair Service

Replacement Service

Preventive Maintenance

Signs of Heat Exchanger Failure

Carbon monoxide detected in supply air

Soot or combustion residue in booth

Reduced heating efficiency

Visible cracks or holes in exchanger

Combustion odor in heated air

What Causes Heat Exchanger Failure

Understanding the root cause helps determine whether repair or replacement is the best option.

Thermal Stress Cracking

common

Repeated heating/cooling cycles cause metal fatigue and cracking.

Corrosion

common

Acidic combustion byproducts or external moisture corrode metal.

Scale Buildup

occasional

Internal deposits reduce heat transfer efficiency.

Flame Impingement

occasional

Improper burner adjustment causes localized overheating.

Repair vs. Replace Decision Guide

Repair When...

Minor scale can be cleaned
Very small cracks may be weldable (temporary)

Replace When...

Cracks are present (safety hazard)
Severe corrosion
Exchanger is 20+ years old
CO detected in supply air

Cost Comparison

Heat exchanger replacement is major: $5,000-20,000+ depending on size. This is why annual inspection is critical.

Lifespan Considerations

Cracked heat exchangers are a CO poisoning hazard. Never delay replacement when cracks are found.

Brands Using This Component

We service heat exchanger across all major paint booth brands.

Hastings

Lennox

Nordyne

Reznor

Our Heat Exchanger Service Process

Visual Inspection

Inspect heat exchanger surfaces for cracks, corrosion, or damage.

Combustion Analysis

Test for CO in supply air indicating exchanger breach.

Pressure/Dye Test

If needed, pressure test or dye test to locate small cracks.

Efficiency Test

Measure temperature rise and combustion efficiency.

Report & Recommend

Provide detailed report with photos and recommendations.

Heat Exchanger Service FAQ

Common questions about heat exchanger repair and replacement

Heat exchangers should be inspected annually, ideally before the heating season. This is typically part of a comprehensive burner service. Cracks can develop between seasons, making annual checks essential.

A cracked heat exchanger can allow combustion gases (including carbon monoxide) to enter the supply air and your booth. This is a serious safety hazard. The heater should not be used until the exchanger is replaced.

Common causes include scale buildup inside the exchanger, dirty air filters restricting airflow, or improper combustion. A combustion analysis and inspection can identify the cause and restore efficiency.

Have a question not answered here?

Call us at (877) 489-3727

Related Components

Burner Repair Makeup Air Unit

Related Troubleshooting

Not Heating

Need Heat Exchanger Service?

WERCS technicians have the expertise and parts to get your heat exchanger working properly.

Call (877) 489-3727 Request Service Quote