It’s normal for your furnace to make some noise, especially when you start to use it again after long periods where it’s been out of operation. However, not all noises mean the same thing. If your furnace is regularly making strange sounds that you wouldn’t normally hear, there is a chance something is wrong with it. Keep reading to learn the top 5 furnace noises to watch out for, and make sure to call our skilled HVAC techs at A-Temp Heating, Cooling & Electrical for all your furnace repair, installation, and maintenance needs.
Common Furnace Noises to Watch Out For Are
1. Banging
A banging or booming noise will sometimes occur when you turn your furnace on and does not necessarily mean there is something wrong with the unit.
Why Does My Furnace Keep Making a Banging Noise?
- Oftentimes, it just means your ductwork is expanding and contracting as the furnace blower starts. Make sure your vent is open and change your air filter if this happens, and the problem should go away.
- However, if you have an older furnace, it’s possible that banging sound is occurring because of a delay in the system’s ignition. Call an experienced heating tech if your unit is older, and watch out for gas smells, which pose a serious risk for everyone on your property.
2. Screeching
That screeching noise coming from your furnace usually means you are dealing with a mechanical issue.
Why Is My Furnace Making a Screeching Noise?
More often than not, squealing and screeching specifically indicate problems with your furnace belt or fan motor. Fortunately, these issues can usually be taken care of by a qualified HVAC tech, who will have the parts and components needed to fix your system.
3. Clicking
Furnace clicking is another sign there is something wrong with the ignition.
Why Is My Furnace Making a Clicking Noise?
- It could be a malfunctioning flame sensor or thermocouple, a broken or clogged valve, or a problem between the ignition and gas. However, no matter what the issue is, it’s important not to ignore it. You may just need a repair, but if it’s the ignition at fault, your problem may also be hazardous.
- If you have an electric furnace rather than a gas unit, you may still need to call a technician if you hear a clicking sound, though you won’t have to worry your system is experiencing a gas leak.
4. Chattering
Most of the time, these high-pitched chattering or chirping noises will go away, but if they don’t, consider calling a technician.
Why Is My Furnace Making a Chirping Noise?
- Your furnace may chirp and chatter after you turn it on following a season of disuse
- There is a chance you may be dealing with a failing fan belt, or that your system may need some general maintenance and cleaning. Fortunately, any seasoned heating expert will be equipped with the tools to get the job done.
5. Rattling
Why Is My Furnace Making a Rattling Noise?
A rattling sound coming from your furnace usually means there is something wrong with your motor or fan. If these noises persist, these components may have broken down entirely. Unfortunately, a worn-out fan or motor usually means you will need to replace your entire system.
To learn more about your furnace, dial (503) 694-3396, click here to schedule service online.