What is the primary purpose of the flue baffle in a furnace?

The flue baffle in a furnace is designed primarily to increase heat exchange. Its presence within the flue system helps to modify the flow of exhaust gases, allowing more time for the hot gases to transfer their heat to the surrounding air or to the heat exchanger elements before exiting the system. This improved heat transfer results in more efficient heating of the space being serviced by the furnace.

By maximizing the heat exchange process, the baffle aids in capturing more heat energy from the combustion gases, which can lead to better overall efficiency of the heating system. As a result, it can positively impact the comfort of the living space while also potentially reducing operational costs associated with fuel consumption and energy use. The flue baffle plays a critical role in ensuring that the furnace operates effectively, contributing to both performance and efficiency.