Here’s the deal: your furnace, no matter how old it is, should not be making any weird noises. So, if it is, it is definitely a cause for concern!
There are a number of sounds you definitely do not want to hear from your furnace, and below, we have listed some of them for you. All you have to do is keep reading to find out more, and of course, remember to call us for your HVAC services in Shippensburg.
Should your furnace ever make weird noises?
Unusual sounds are warning signs that your furnace may need repair:
- Grinding, squealing or screeching: motor bearings or blower belt trouble
- Banging or booming: delayed ignition, dirty burners, or gas buildup
- Rattling, clanking or vibration: loose parts, panels, or a cracked heat exchanger
- Buzzing or humming: electrical problems like failing capacitor or wiring issues
Keep Your Ears Open!
Like we mentioned above, there are a number of strange sounds you don’t want to hear from your furnace, including:
Screeches and Squeals
A loud screeching sound is a sign that the blower motor in your furnace is not working properly. The blower motor is the mechanism that pushes the heated air throughout your ductwork system.
It could be that your blower motor needs lubrication, however, a screeching sound could also suggest that the fan has stopped altogether. Your local HVAC technician can assess your system to make an accurate diagnosis.
Clanking and Grinding
If the sound you’re hearing sounds like metal-on-metal, it could be that there is a problem with the furnace’s blower wheel. If this is the case, it is important that you turn off your furnace and contact a professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the wheel.
Banging and Booming
In many cases, the bang or boom sounds you may hear coming from your furnace indicates a dirty burner. The noise is caused by a delay in ignition due to dirt build-up on the burner. The gas builds up inside your system, and when it finally ignites, a teeny, tiny small explosion occurs inside your furnace.
Fortunately, a professional HVAC technicians will be able to make those burners squeaky clean!
Rattling and Shaking
Rattling can indicate a number of issues, from mild to major. Sometimes, it can suggest that there is a loose panel or screw somewhere on or within the furnace. In other cases, it could mean that there is a crack in the heat exchanger, which could lead to serious issues, like a carbon monoxide leak.
If you hear any sounds that resemble rattling, be sure to turn off your system and contact a team like ours for repairs straight away.
Professional Repairs Are a Must!
If you’ve heard any above-mentioned strange sounds coming from your furnace, it is best to contact a professional as soon as possible. Your local technician will thoroughly inspect your system to make an accurate diagnosis.
And yes, there may be plenty of amateurs willing to service your system for a questionably low price. However, sometimes an attempt to save money could end up costing you much, much more in the long run. Therefore, it is always best to call in a pro and get the job done right the first time around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why should a furnace not make weird noises?
Answer: A furnace should operate quietly because strange noises often signal mechanical problems. Loose components, blower motor issues, or dirty burners can lead to damage or poor efficiency if ignored. Unusual sounds are early warning signs that professional attention may be needed.
Question: What types of noises indicate furnace trouble?
Answer: Common warning noises include banging, rattling, screeching, or popping sounds. These noises often point to problems like loose parts, motor strain, ignition issues, or dirt buildup inside the system. Each noise can suggest a specific underlying fault that requires repair.
Question: Why does my furnace make a popping or booming sound?
Answer: Popping or booming noises usually occur when gas builds up before ignition, causing a small explosion inside the burner area. This delayed ignition can damage the heat exchanger and reduce safety, so it’s important to have the furnace inspected promptly.
Question: What causes high-pitched squealing or grinding noises in a furnace?
Answer: Squealing or grinding sounds typically come from worn motor bearings, a loose belt, or friction within the blower assembly. These noises often develop gradually as parts wear out and should be addressed before they cause further mechanical damage.
Question: How can I prevent my furnace from making strange noises?
Answer: Regular maintenance is key. Replace air filters, tighten loose screws, lubricate moving parts, and schedule annual professional tune-ups. Routine care keeps components clean, ensures smooth operation, and helps catch potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.
Ready to schedule your furnace repairs? All you have to do is contact the team at Premier HVAC Services today to get started.