To address a broken flue, first ventilate the area and shut off the appliance immediately. Contact a licensed HVAC professional for repairs or replacement. Inspect surrounding structures for smoke damage and avoid using alternative heat sources until fixed. Regular maintenance, including annual inspections, can prevent future issues.

A broken flue poses significant risks due to potential carbon monoxide (CO) leaks, which can cause poisoning or death. The CDC reports that CO poisoning accounts for over 500 annual deaths in the U.S., with faulty heating systems as a leading cause. Flue failures often result from wear, corrosion, or improper installation, as noted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which estimates that 16% of home heating fires involve equipment with damaged chimneys or flues. Immediate action is critical because CO is odorless and lethal at low concentrations. Delaying repairs increases the risk of structural damage, fire spread, and health complications. For example, a 2021 study in Journal of Environmental Health found that 72% of CO poisonings from residential heating occurred during winter, when flues are in frequent use. Professional repairs ensure compliance with safety standards, such as NFPA 211, which mandates flue inspections every year. Proactive maintenance reduces long-term costs and protects lives, as even minor flue cracks can allow toxic fumes to enter living spaces.