Excessive rust atop or around burner in or around draft
diverter: The inspector will note this item if it is noted that heavy rust particles either cover the burners, the area under the burners or the area around or inside the draft diverter. Excessively rusted heat exchangers often evidence themselves by depositing considerable rust atop and around the burners of the heater.
Sometimes the rust comes from the exhaust flue and vent and the exchanger will not be affected. This may be caused by a missing cap on the vent that allows rain water to enter the system and cause rust. Often when an improperly vented clothes dryer is in the same room as a forced air heater we find excessive rust. The extra moisture from the dryer enters the exchanger and quickly causes rust. The presence of excessive rust particles can cause interference with the flame resulting in further problems. The rust particles should be vacuumed from the burner area. Contact a heating contractor for assistance is necessary.