Why Your Furnace May Be Making These Noises

Now is when families start turning on their heaters to settle in for a cold winter. Unfortunately, when some furnaces start up, especially if it hasn’t undergone a yearly heating tune-up, there are some troubles that need to be assessed. A major problem you may encounter is your furnace making funny noises – check out these furnace noises you should never neglect. 

Scraping Sound 

If you hear a loud raking racket that sounds like metal on metal, there is probably something wrong with the blower wheel. If you hear a noise like this, turn off your furnace immediately and call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to inspect the system. There are multiple things that could be amiss with the blower wheel. First, it could just be loose and if the component is not too harmed, can be tightened. Second, it could be that the blower wheel is broken and needs to be replaced. Or third, it could be that the motor mount is what broke, causing the complete blower assembly to rattle uncontrollably. One of our service technicians would be happy to come over and take a look, and get you back to the silent and comfortable home you have come to expect. 

Loud Bang When Furnace Starts 

If there is a loud bang when your furnace turns on, there are a few things that could be going on. Two typical issues are a dirty furnace burner or ignitor. Extending and contracting air ducts can also cause loud booms after the heating blower comes on. A dirty furnace burner or ignitor could prevent the burners from igniting, causing gas to build up. When the gas finally does ignite, it will create the loud bang you hear. This could end up being a safety issue, especially if one of those small explosions caused the heat exchanger to deteriorate. Not only could that produce a carbon monoxide leak, but you would also have to replace the heat exchanger, which could be very pricey. 

The other problem, stretching and contracting air ducts, is a typical noise complaint for people with metal ducts. If your system is making the loud pop and it is caused by your air ducts, it could be a symptom of undersized ducts, closed vents, or a clogged air filter. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is happy to come out to diagnose your trouble and get your home back in shape for the winter. Also, this will also give you improved comfort as well. 

Whining Noise 

If you hear a squealing 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. A seasonal furnace tune-up will help catch these issues before they become serious problems so make sure you contact us at 403-279-5760 and we’ll make sure your furnace is ready to keep you safe and warm all winter long.