Common Noises That Can Reveal a Problem With Your Furnace

Unfortunately, you can find it difficult to discover a furnace problem if you don’t know the signs. When your furnace starts making a new or unusual sound, take that as an indication that something is wrong. Each sound indicates a different malfunction, so it can help your HVAC technician to know what specific noise you hear.

Rattling

Yes, a rattling sound coming from your furnace can be as harmless as a loose bolt in your unit’s access hatch. Unfortunately, it might also tell you that the heat exchanger has a crack in it. In that case, look for signs of carbon monoxide poisoning in your home. Other issues causing this noise include burner malfunctions or blower motor problems.

Chirping

Is your furnace chirping? Often, this is just the normal noises the unit makes as it warms up. However, if the chirping is new, you might have a loose mounting plate or a blower motor malfunction. These are issues that a professional will need to address.

Banging

If your furnace creates banging sounds as it begins a cycle, schedule professional furnace repairs. Usually, the banging is the sound of a small explosion as an ignition delay causes a buildup of gas.

Once the ignition lights, the combustible gas explodes. You’ll need an HVAC technician to fix the ignition and reduce pressure in the combustion chamber.

Squealing/Whistling

This might be one of the few furnace problems you can fix on your own. Squealing or whistling is usually the sound that air makes as it tries to squeeze through a dirty air filter. Remove the dirty air filter and replace it with a clean one. If changing the filter doesn’t help, turn to the experts for help.

Buzzing

Furnace issues that cause buzzing usually involve loose or damaged components. Since this might lead to a fuel leak, carbon monoxide exposure, or a heightened risk of fire, it’s best to turn the unit off. Wait for an HVAC technician to fix the problem and restore the safe operation of the unit.

Scraping

Even when using heating in a warmer climate, efficiency is a concern. Any noise, such as a metallic scraping sound, indicates a problem that will eventually compromise your energy efficiency. In this case, it can lead to a need for extensive furnace repair as well.

Whether the scraping results from worn bearings, a loose fan, or another problem, prompt repairs will help you save money in the long run.

Popping/Clicking

Sometimes, a cracked heat exchanger causes a popping or clicking noise. A faulty ignition system can also produce an unusual clicking noise. While a technician can repair either problem, these issues are more common in older systems. Depending on the age and condition of the unit, you might decide to schedule a furnace replacement.

Don’t Put Off Your Heating Repairs

Southern Air provides reliable and durable repair services in addition to our maintenance and furnace installation services. If you’re experiencing any heating problems, we can diagnose the issue and offer repair options. Contact us to schedule service today!