A furnace works by blowing heated air through ducts that deliver warm air to rooms throughout your house. And while this system produces minor humming and popping sounds during operation, there are several strange furnace sounds you shouldn’t ignore. These noises are one of the first signs that your furnace may be in need of maintenance or repair. Ignoring the signs can put you and your family at risk. What are these signs? Let’s have a look…
Clicking – Clicking sound coming from your furnace point towards a faulty flame sensor. This can mean that there is a problem between the ignition and the gas. Check the porcelain area of the sensor unit and see if it is cracked, chipped, or broken. This problem arises due to the vibration of the ducts and other parts of the furnace system.
Loud boom – Booming sound is indeed alarming, and you should never ignore it. The noise is a result of gas building up in the combustion chamber. The blockage results in delayed ignition. If you hear a loud boom or smell natural gas odor around the furnace, call a professional technician immediately.
Rattling – A rattling sound could mean that you have worn or broken components either in the motor, blower, heat exchanger or even because of the loose connections in the duct system. If you hear the rattling noise getting loud, turn off the furnace immediately and call a specialist to investigate the problem.
Squealing – A high-pitched squeal noise coming from the furnace usually results from a faulty belt, failing fan motor, or a problem with the blower. In any of these cases, a routine check from a certified HVAC service technician is needed. It is necessary to resolve the issue on time as it could mean the blower will no longer run and you’ll be left without heat.
Chirping – A metallic chirping sound from a furnace usually occurs when the unit hasn’t been used in a while. It is quite common and can be resolved with scheduled maintenance. Normally it happens when you need your fan belts replaced or some similar routine maintenance performed.
Benefits of regular furnace maintenance
You can easily prevent most of the problems with scheduled maintenance. Calling an HVAC professional to do the cleaning and carrying out preventive measures could save you from costly repairs or replacements.
Comprehensive preventive maintenance service – A professional will follow a maintenance plan that includes preventive measures such as tightening loose connections, lubricating mechanical parts, testing airflow, inspecting ductwork, testing system control, and changing the air filter, and more. In short, you will be able to depend on the performance & durability of your furnace.
Extends Equipment’s Lifespan – A well-maintained furnace can last for well over a decade, letting you get the most out of your investment. Scheduled furnace maintenance often comes as a responsibility where you not only ensure the safety of your premises but also ensure optimal indoor air quality.
Lower cost of repair – The cost of getting a new furnace can be steep, especially when it is an unexpected repair. But if you keep your current furnace system is clean, lubricated, and in good condition through scheduled maintenance, you will save yourself from costly repairs or replacement. Furnace maintenance also keeps your heating system running as efficiently as possible, which saves you money.
No matter what strange furnace noises you’re hearing, give us a call today for an inspection. And don’t forget to schedule annual furnace maintenance at the beginning of every heating season to keep your furnace safe and efficient all year long.