Why Your Furnace May Be Making These Noises

It’s that time of year when people start turning on their heating systems to settle in for a long winter. Unfortunately, when some heating systems start up, especially if it hasn’t undergone a fall heating tune-up, there are some troubles that need to be inspected. A big problem you may discover is your furnace making funny noises – take a look at these furnace noises you should never neglect.

Scraping Sound

If you hear a loud scratching noise that sounds like metal on metal, there is possibly something defective with the blower wheel. If you hear something like this, shut off your furnace right away and call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to inspect the equipment. There are multiple things that could be faulty with the blower wheel. First, it might just be loose and if the part is not too impaired, can be tightened. Second, it may be that the blower wheel is broken and in need of replacement. Or third, it may be that the motor mount is what broke, causing the whole blower assembly to vibrate uncontrollably. One of our service professionals would be happy to come over and take a look, and get you back to the noiseless and cozy home you have come to adore.

Loud Bang When Furnace Starts

If there is a loud bang when your furnace kicks on, there are a handful of things that could be happening. Two common problems are a dirty furnace burner or ignitor. Stretching and contracting air ducts can also produce loud booms after the heating system blower starts up. A soiled furnace burner or ignitor could holdup the burners from igniting, causing gas to build up. When the gas finally does ignite, it will create the loud pop you hear. This could result in a safety issue, especially if one of those small explosions caused the heat exchanger to crack. Not only could that produce a carbon monoxide leak, but you would also have to replace the heat exchanger, which may be very pricey.

The other issue, extending and contracting air ducts, is a typical noise complaint for people with metal ducts. If your system is making the loud pop and it is caused by your air ducts, it could be an indication of undersized ducts, closed vents, or a clogged air filter. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is happy to visit your home to diagnose your issue and get your home back in working order. Ultimately, this will also give you improved comfort as well.

Whining Noise

If you hear a high-pitched noise, it could be the shaft bearings are in need of oil, there is an issue with the blower belt, or the blower motor is malfunctioning. An annual system tune-up will help catch these issues before they become serious problems so make sure you give us a call at 866-397-3787 and we’ll make sure your heating equipment is ready to keep you safe and cozy all winter long.