Why Your Furnace May Be Making These Noises
This is the time of year people start turning on their heating systems to settle in for a cold winter. Unfortunately, when some furnaces start up, especially if it hasn’t received a yearly heating tune-up, there are some problems that need to be examined. A big problem you may discover is your furnace making unusual noises – take a look at these furnace noises you should never neglect.
Scraping Sound
If you hear a loud scratching racket that sounds like metal on metal, there is possibly something defective with the blower wheel. If you hear a sound like this, shut off your furnace right away and call Stevenson Service Experts to inspect the furnace. There are multiple things that could be faulty with the blower wheel. First, it may just be loose and if the component is not too impaired, can be tightened. Second, it may be that the blower wheel is broken and in need of replacement. Or third, it could be that the motor mount itself broke, causing the entire blower assembly to shake uncontrollably. One of our service professionals would be happy to come to your home and take a look, and get you back to the noiseless and warm 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 couple things that could be happening. Two typical problems are a dirty furnace burner or ignitor. Expanding and contracting air ducts can also cause loud booms after the heating system blower turns on. A soiled furnace burner or ignitor could prevent the burners from igniting, forcing gas to build up. When the gas finally does ignite, it will create the loud pop you hear. This could end up being a safety issue, especially if one of these small explosions caused the heat exchanger to deteriorate. Not only could that result in a carbon monoxide leak, but you’d end up having to replace the heat exchanger, which may be very pricey.
The other issue, stretching and contracting air ducts, is a common noise complaint for homes with metal ducts. If your equipment is making the loud boom and it is produced by your air ducts, it could be a sign of undersized ducts, blocked vents, or a clogged air filter. Stevenson Service Experts is happy to visit your home to diagnose your trouble and get your home back in working order. Additionally, this will also give you improved comfort as well.
Whining Noise
If you hear a whining disturbance, it could be the blower belt, shaft bearings in need of oil, or even a malfunctioning blower motor. An annual heating tune-up will help find these issues before they become major problems so make sure you call us at 614-334-3192 and we’ll make sure your furnace is ready to keep you safe and warm all winter long.