Furnaces are complex devices that always produce some sounds, though certain noises may be causes for concern. Although most of these issues will require a professional’s help, you should know what each sound means so you can prepare.
What Does That Noise Mean?
1. Booming or Banging
If the burner is clogged or contains insufficient gas or air, it won’t light correctly. As a result, gas will accumulate inside the chamber of your furnace, resulting in a small explosion that creates a booming or banging sound. This problem is usually resolved by professional cleaning.
2. Squealing, Scraping, or Grinding
The grating sound of metal on metal typically means the blower or its belt is loose, crooked, or broken, causing it to slap against its surroundings. It’s also possible that the motor bearings have worn down or need to be oiled. Either way, turn off the furnace right away and call a contractor before the damage worsens.
3. Rattling
A rattling noise is another possible sign of a blower problem, but it could also point to a cracked heat exchanger. This is particularly true if the rattled is accompanied by banging noises. Since this issue can lead to carbon monoxide leakages, get furnace repair immediately.
4. Clicking
When you switch on the machine, the ignition will click. However, if you continue to hear clicking as the blower turns off and back on, the flame sensor might need cleaning. If it doesn’t turn on at all despite the clicking noises, a valve or wire may have become loose.
5. Whistling
A clogged or crooked filter will allow limited space for air to travel through your machine, so it’ll create a whistling noise. Additionally, this sound could come from loose ductwork. Changing the filter or having the ductwork fixed will stop the noise and improve the system’s efficiency.
If you’re concerned about any of these noises coming from your furnace, contact us at Jon’s Plumbing & Heating in Mount Vernon, OH. Since 1998, our licensed Mitsubishi Electric Diamond Contractors™ have offered award-winning and eco-friendly HVAC solutions to our community. We strive to provide personalized services for each client, prioritizing their satisfaction above all else. To schedule a service today, call us at (740) 520-2312 or reach out online.
