A cracked heat exchanger can release carbon monoxide into your home’s air, posing a serious safety hazard. In Brilliant, exchanger-only repairs cost $1,500–$4,000, while complete furnace replacements range $2,600–$5,600. Because cracks weaken the furnace’s safety barrier, replacement is almost always the safest and most practical long-term solution.
Brilliant’s position along the Ohio River, combined with aging housing and high winter humidity, makes furnace wear common. Many homes near Route 7, La Belle View, and the river flats still use gas systems installed decades ago. Those systems often sit in tight, damp basements that promote rust and corrosion. Once metal fatigue sets in, even a small heat-exchanger crack can allow combustion gases to mix with indoor air. Annual inspections protect both family safety and furnace performance during long Jefferson County winters.
The heat exchanger separates hot exhaust gases from clean household air. When it cracks, carbon monoxide and other combustion byproducts can leak into your duct system. Because CO is colorless and odorless, it can accumulate unnoticed. Brilliant’s low-lying basements are especially prone to poor ventilation, allowing gases to linger.
Warning signs include:
Installing CO detectors and scheduling yearly furnace tune-ups are the best defenses.
Heat-exchanger replacement requires major disassembly and long labor hours. Even under warranty, labor costs can reach $1,500; out of warranty, up to $4,000. With most Brilliant furnaces between 10 and 15 years old, full replacement is typically more economical. New 90%+ AFUE systems reduce heating costs, improve comfort, and include longer warranties. Honest Fix provides exact quotes, inspection photos, and Service Guardian protection to ensure every installation meets strict safety standards.
Exact HVAC replacement quotes: (740) 825-9408 or HonestFix.com/schedule-service