6 Common Types of Furnace Noises & What To Do About Them
A properly functioning furnace normally creates some amount of noise during operation. However, this noise should be limited to a steady hum. If you’re hearing bangs, clangs, shrieks, rattling, scraping, and other alarming sounds from your furnace, it’s a clear sign that something’s not right and that you need the help of a licensed HVAC technician.
In this article, we’ll explain why these unpleasant noises occur and how to address them. Read on to learn more.
Banging noises
Loud banging noises indicate small gas explosions due to ignition delays. Like in gas stoves, furnace gas accumulates inside the combustion chamber if the burners fail to ignite on time. This can cause dust and dirt buildup, which can in turn lead to clogging.
These issues can also result in gas burner malfunctions. If your furnace is making banging noises, contact your local HVAC technician ASAP. Failing to do so can lead to hazardous gas leaks and even fires. Let the professionals fix the problem for you.
Shrieking noises
High-pitched shrieking noises are a sign of motor problems. They can be caused by a damaged belt. This problem can be solved easily by a HVAC technician if taken care of immediately before it causes more damage. Call a licensed technician for a check up and have them repair or replace faulty parts.
Scraping noises
Loose or damaged components can cause a furnace to produce scraping noises. This may include worn out ball bearings, loose blower wheels, bent fan blades, or loose screws. These problems are common in old furnaces, and can be repaired or replaced easily by a professional HVAC technician.
Rattling and rumbling noises
Loose parts (such as unfastened screws) are a common cause of rattling and rumbling noises. These loose components can create more damage in the furnace if not immediately fixed. Have a HVAC technician check the blower motor, hot surface ignitor, heat exchanger, or gas burners.
Whistling sounds
Air duct leaks or clogged air filters are the main cause of whistling noises. This is not only annoying, but can also cause airflow inefficiency. It can unnecessarily increase energy consumption since your furnace has to work harder to provide the necessary amount of heat. It’s best to have this issue looked at by a registered HVAC technician.
Humming sounds
Humming sounds from furnaces often go unnoticed because you can easily get used to them. But if they get noticeably louder, there’s no doubt that something in your furnace is severely damaged or broken. The most probable culprit is a broken fan or damaged capacitor. Again, this is a job for a trained HVAC expert.
Complete silence
Sometimes, a furnace can still have problems even without making any noise. One of the most dangerous ones is a carbon monoxide leak. It goes unnoticed by human senses so it’s important to install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and make sure these detectors are functioning properly. Annual HVAC servicing is key to preventing this issue.
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