Furnace Noises and What Could They Mean

What are these Furnace Noises

And Is Furnace Repair needed?

Noises coming from your furnace mean many things, and it is important to figure out if it is normal or a Furnace Repair is needed. In addition to sometimes scaring the living daylights out of you, they may signal some other problems that could be coming from your furnace.

Some of the issues you can take care of on your own, and other times, we recommend consulting a professional. Below are descriptions of various furnace noises you may here and what they could mean.

Banging

Let’s start with the bang. If you hear a loud bang or a boom coming from your furnace, this could be gas buildup and a delayed explosion. The same thing could happen if you leave the propane on for a long period of time before lighting your BBQ.

There might be other reasons for the banging sound, and it is recommended contacting a professional.

Deep Rumbling

If you hear a groaning or deep rumbling noise, it might be an indication something is wrong with your motor bearings, gas burners, or pilot light.

A house shaking rumble could be unburnt fuel in the combustion chamber, and there is a possibility it continues to burn, even after being shut off.

If you hear any groaning or rumbling noise it is recommended to contact a professional immediately.

Furnace Rattling 

Hearing a Furnace Rattle could mean several things. If the rattling comes before your blower turns on, it could be due to a cracked heat exchanger. This may turn into a serious issue as it is the main cause for carbon monoxide leaks. Call a professional ASAP.

If the Rattling comes after the blower comes on, it could mean there are loose ductwork connections. Another cause of persistent rattling and rumbling could be an imbalanced blower wheel, motor, or a loose screw. Best to contact a professional.

Clicking

Hearing your Furnace Click is probably your ignition kicking on and is normal for your furnace.

However, if there is excessive clicking then it could mean there is a problem with your flame sensor. Over time this sensor could accumulate a large amount of dust and debris. You may want to call someone to come in and clean the sensor or have them replaced.

Scraping Metal

A Scraping Metal sound could mean there is a problem with your blower wheel. It might be something is stuck in the blower assembly, or something might be broken.  Best to call in a professional to assess the problem and provide recommendations.

Popping

A Popping sound is probably coming from your ductwork as the metal expands and contracts. As this is a normal noise, it might be a good idea to schedule a checkup with a professional to look and make sure everything is operating properly.

Squealing

There are a variety of Squealing Sounds related to your Furnace. It can be an air leak, loose blower belt, motor bearings or malfunctioning blower motor. It is best to have the squealing sound investigated by a professional, who will provide recommendations.

Whistling

A Whistling sound in your Furnace, could be due to air leaks or a clogged filter. Check if the furnace filter been changed and inspect your duct system for air leaks. If leaks are found, or you are not sure where the whistling is coming from, contact a professional.

Call Vision Plumbing Heating Cooling at 250-470-9552 to discuss your Furnace Repair or Maintenance today!