Recognizing and Addressing Unusual Sounds Your Furnace Should Not Make

While most mechanical devices make some noise as they operate, any strange sounds coming from your furnace may signal that it’s having issues. Fortunately, most of these sound problems can be addressed by simply contacting a professional.

For instance, low booming sounds could indicate that there’s a gas build-up caused by a dirty burner that delays ignition. This issue needs to be addressed as soon as possible to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

1. Squealing

While some clicking is normal, if you’re hearing it constantly or it’s extremely loud or abrupt, it could indicate that there’s an issue with the ignition system or sensors. If ignored, these issues can lead to dangerous problems such as carbon monoxide poisoning.

Squealing or screeching sounds are usually caused by the blower motor fan belt. This belt has bearings that can wear out over time, and this is a sign that you need to add some lubrication. You can also check the condition of the belt by pushing down on it; if it deflects more than 3/4 inch, you need to replace it.

Rattling sounds are also a cause for concern. If you hear these sounds, shut off your furnace and try to tighten any loose panels or doors. If the problem persists, contact a technician to inspect your furnace.

2. Banging

Whether it’s banging, rattling, whistling or screeching, unusual furnace sounds are enough to give anyone the heebie-jeebies. These sounds indicate a serious problem that should not be ignored.

A booming sound when your system is running can be caused by dirty burners that delay the ignition of gas, causing it to “explode” when it finally ignites. You can avoid this by getting your burners cleaned during annual fall furnace maintenance.

A rattling sound can be due to the blower motor bearings drying out, which will require them to be lubricated by a technician. It can also be due to a blockage or air leak in the ductwork. In either case, it’s best to have a professional diagnose the issue.

3. Buzzing

A rattling sound can be a sign that there are loose components inside your furnace. This is something that could potentially lead to equipment damage, health hazards, and higher energy bills if left unaddressed.

A whistling sound, on the other hand, may be a result of a clogged air filter or poorly lubricated fan belts and shaft bearings. This is a problem that can easily be corrected by a professional during your annual furnace tune-up in the fall.

Loud banging noises that occur when a heating cycle ends are often caused by the expansion and contraction of metal panels on your furnace and in the ductwork. These sounds can also be a sign that there is a problem with the blower motor or a faulty fan.

4. Chirping

While this sound sounds a lot like you have bees in your walls, it’s actually a sign that there’s a problem with your furnace. Chirping noises are often the result of ductwork contracting and expanding. This issue can be resolved by contacting a KS heating and air specialist to make adjustments to the system’s ductwork.

When you hear a screeching sound when your furnace turns on, it may indicate that the fan belt needs to be replaced. It could also mean that there’s a problem with other motor components, which need to be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage. These issues may also be exacerbated by a lack of routine maintenance and annual tune-ups.

5. Clicking

Clicking sounds in a furnace are often caused by something that is stuck inside your system, usually a piece of debris. These types of problems can sometimes be solved by simply entering your access hatch and tightening loose parts. Other times, it is necessary to have a professional enter your system to perform a full inspection and make the needed repairs or replacements.

Rattling is another sound that indicates something is wrong with your furnace system. This is most commonly associated with a problem with the blower motor fan belt, but can also be caused by other loose components like screws or scrap metal.

If you are hearing these types of unusual furnace noises, call your local heating technicians for an appointment right away. Ignoring these sounds can lead to major furnace repair bills down the road.