If your furnace is making loud noises in Athens, GA, there’s a significant issue that likely requires professional intervention. However, to find out why your furnace is noisy, you’ll need to determine what kind of sounds it’s making. Here, we’ll review the most common furnace noises and the reasons behind them.
Whistling
If you’re hearing whistling noises coming from the furnace, it’s likely due to a loose air duct or a clogged filter. If the home’s air ducts aren’t sealed and connected, they may make whistling noises when air goes through those small holes and cracks. Ducts are usually in out-of-the-way areas, so it’s not a fix you should try on your own.
Another reason for a furnace to make whistling noises is because of a clogged air filter. The filter serves an important purpose as it traps debris and dust, preventing them from entering the system. However, if a filter is not changed periodically, it’ll become clogged, and the air may create whistling noises as it passes through the filter. To resolve the issue, turn the unit off and check the air filter. Replace it if necessary.
Rattling
If your furnace is making rattling sounds, there’s probably a loose part or a malfunctioning burner. Numerous parts may become loose with time, including:
- Bearings
- Panels
- Fans
- Motors
- Ductwork
If the unit makes rattling noises while in operation, it’s likely due to a loose part. Our skilled team at Clockwork Heating and Air Conditioning can tighten loose parts and help your system run quieter.
As time passes, a furnace’s burners may become clogged with soot and debris. If the burners aren’t cleaned regularly, the buildup can affect airflow, producing rumbling and rattling noises. Call us to evaluate your furnace and clean its most important parts.
Delayed Ignition
When a furnace doesn’t light immediately, delayed ignition is said to occur. As the thermostat signals for heat, fuel is sent to the furnace. If it doesn’t light right away, the fuel may build up. This can create a small explosion and a banging noise.
Delayed ignition has a variety of causes, such as an improper fuel and air mixture or dirty and misaligned burners. No matter the reason, it’s important to seek professional advice if your system is suffering from delayed ignition.
Contraction and Expansion of Air Ducts
Another reason for a noisy furnace is if the ducts are rapidly contracting and expanding. If the noises are coming from an area away from the unit, this is probably the issue. Ducts often expand near where the hot air comes from the furnace, especially if there’s excessive positive pressure. Conversely, they may contract near where cold air comes in due to negative pressure. The contraction and expansion of air ducts may occur because of:
- A dirty air filter
- Obstructed or closed vents
- Dirty ducts
- Ductwork that’s too small
The easiest step to take action is to check the air filter and replace it if needed. However, if that doesn’t work, give us a call. To prevent ductwork damage, it’s best to have these issues addressed professionally.
A Damaged Heat Exchanger
If you’re hearing banging noises just before the hot air comes out of the supply vents, there may be a crack in the heat exchanger. This part is composed of several metal coils, and it heats the air that warms your home.
When the heat exchanger is overheated or its airflow is blocked, it can crack. While the scenario is unlikely, it’s important to call for help right away if you suspect damage to the heat exchanger. Furnaces burn fuel to heat air, producing carbon monoxide and other noxious gases. If the heat exchanger is broken, it may release these gases into the home.
Count on Us for Fast, Friendly HVAC Service
If your home’s furnace is making loud and annoying noises, don’t tune them out. Instead, you should call Clockwork Heating and Air Conditioning immediately to fix the problem before it gets worse. We have many years of experience helping Athens homeowners stay warm. Our skilled technicians can perform AC and heating repair, maintenance, and installation services. We also offer indoor air quality service as well as humidifiers and dehumidifiers for home comfort. Request more information online, stop by our offices, or give us a call today. We look forward to serving you!
