Why Your Furnace May Be Making These Noises

It’s that time of year when homeowners start turning on their heaters to settle in for a frigid winter. Unfortunately, when some heating systems start up, especially if it hasn’t undergone a yearly heating tune-up, there are some issues that need to be inspected. A big problem you may encounter is your furnace making funny noises – read about these furnace noises you should never neglect. 

Scraping Sound 

If you hear a loud scraping noise that sounds like metal on metal, there is possibly something faulty with the blower wheel. If you hear something like this, shut off your furnace right away and call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to inspect the equipment. There are a couple things that could be amiss with the blower wheel. First, it might just be loose and if the component is not too damaged, can be tightened. Second, it might be that the blower wheel is broken and will require replacement. Or third, it might be that the motor mount is what broke, causing the complete blower assembly to rattle uncontrollably. One of our service experts would be happy to come to your home and take a look, and get you back to the silent and cozy home you have come to adore. 

Loud Bang When Furnace Starts 

If there is a loud bang when your furnace comes on, there are a few things that could be happening. Two general issues are a dirty furnace burner or ignitor. Expanding and contracting air ducts can also create loud booms after the heating system blower comes on. A dirty furnace burner or ignitor could delay the burners from igniting, forcing gas to build up. When the gas finally does ignite, it will create the loud boom you hear. This could cause a safety issue, especially if one of the small explosions caused the heat exchanger to crack. Not only could that produce a carbon monoxide leak, but you’d end up having to replace the heat exchanger, which may be very pricey. 

The other problem, expanding and contracting air ducts, is a usual noise complaint for people with metal ducts. If your furnace is making the loud bang and it is caused by your air ducts, it could be an indication of undersized ducts, blocked vents, or a clogged air filter. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is happy to come out to diagnose your problem and get your home back in shape for the winter. Also, this will also result in improved comfort as well. 

Whining Noise 

If you hear a high-pitched disturbance, 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 big problems so make sure you contact us at 954-736-4314 and we’ll make sure your heating equipment is ready to keep you safe and cozy all winter long.