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If you use a gas furnace to heat your home, you’ll soon be using it regularly as we get close to winter. We recommend you pay attention to any sounds that it makes when you start using it: please don’t ignore unusual sounds! An odd noise can be an early sign of trouble—and if you catch a problem early, you can prevent even more expensive repairs, a breakdown, or even a safety hazard.
We handle repairs for furnaces in Baldwin County, AL, so we’re familiar with the different warning noises you may hear. Below, we’ll go over the more common ones.
1. Banging or Booming
A loud bang or boom when the furnace kicks on could mean delayed ignition. This occurs when gas builds up in the combustion chamber before igniting, leading to a small explosion. Over time, this can damage the heat exchanger, a key part of the furnace. A cracked heat exchanger isn’t just costly to fix—it can also leak dangerous carbon monoxide into your home.
2. Screeching or Squealing
Squealing or screeching noises often indicate an issue with moving parts, such as the blower motor. Another possible cause could be dry or damaged motor bearings that need lubrication or replacement. It’s important to have this investigated because it can eventually lead to one of the motors burning out, requiring a more pricey repair.
3. Rattling Sounds
A rattling furnace can point to a few different issues, ranging from loose panels or screws to more severe concerns. If you hear rattling coming from inside the unit, it may mean a component has become dislodged or damaged. More alarmingly, rattling could indicate a cracked heat exchanger. As we mentioned above, this is a potential safety concern, so call for assistance as soon as possible.
4. Whistling or Hissing
A whistling or hissing sound could mean that air is leaking from the ductwork or there’s an issue with the air filter. If the air filter is clogged, the restricted airflow can create a whistling noise. Alternatively, if air is escaping through gaps in the ductwork, it could reduce your furnace’s efficiency and make it harder to maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home.
5. Clicking Sounds
It’s normal to hear some clicking when the furnace cycles on and off, but continuous clicking could be a warning. This might indicate a problem with the ignition system or flame sensor, both of which are essential for safe operation. If these parts malfunction, your furnace may struggle to start or shut off correctly.
6. Thumping or Vibrating
Thumping or vibrating sounds can mean the blower assembly is off balance or the motor is out of alignment. Over time, this will strain the motor, reducing its lifespan and leading to costly repairs or replacements. Sometimes, debris can also get stuck in the blower assembly, causing a similar sound.
Don’t Wait for the Problem to Get Worse
Furnace issues have a way of escalating quickly, especially when left unresolved. Schedule a furnace inspection with our Peaden Pros today, and let our expert technicians identify and fix any issues before they turn into costly emergencies. We’ll help you get your furnace back on track and keep your home cozy all winter long!