SSI heat exchanger warning! Options

[914ltd]

I try to post this every year at "heating season" I've only seen this type of damage on SSI heats, never the stock systems.
Most everyone knows carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous. It will eventually kill but probably more dangerous to us, it can impair driving skills similar to drunk driving. A home CO detector riding with you with the heat on should be sufficient but there are other devises (as small airplanes) that are better solutions. In the past several 'teeners have posted good information on this subject. Please, try to inform everyone about this potential danger. Brad

[914itis]

Thanks Brad, for this priceless info.
From my understanding the SSI was not stock? How do you identify SSI vs stock systems ?

[rnellums]

Thanks Brad, for this priceless info.
From my understanding the SSI was not stock? How do you identify SSI vs stock systems ?

SSI will be metallic and not rusted(stainless steel). Stock was painted IIRC, but would likely have surface rust all over it now.

[Bartlett 914]

Thanks Brad, for this priceless info.
From my understanding the SSI was not stock? How do you identify SSI vs stock systems ?

SSI will be metallic and not rusted(stainless steel). Stock was painted IIRC, but would likely have surface rust all over it now.

Not all stainless steel is rust proof. Different alloys can still and do rust. It took years of heat cycles to cause these to rust as they have done. I believe SSI used a different alloy in later years that are not prone to this damage. Problem is you don't know what you have. Better safe and check for leaks. All in all, SSI is a super product.