When you keep an ear to the ground, you can usually tell when something is going wrong. The same goes for your furnace. If you know what to listen for, you can head problems off at the pass before they turn into full-blown disasters.
By being aware of the possible warning signs, you can take steps to avoid a complete breakdown and the need for expensive repairs.
Here are a few sounds that signal your furnace is failing. By the end of this post, you better understand when it’s time to call a pro and when you can fix the issue yourself.
6 Furnace Sounds You Should Never Ignore
Rumbling Sound
If your furnace is producing a rumbling noise, it could be due to a problem with the motor bearings. If you have a gas furnace, the burner or pilot light may also be to blame. In some cases, unburnt fuel in the combustion chamber can cause a rumbling noise even after the furnace has been turned off.
Rattling or Banging Noises
A rattling or banging noise is one of the most common sounds associated with a furnace that is beginning to fail. If you suddenly start hearing strange noises coming from your furnace, it could be a sign that something is wrong. A rattling sound could indicate a problem with the heat exchanger. This is a very serious issue because it could lead to carbon monoxide leaks.
Clicking Noises
Clicking noises are usually caused by a build-up of dirt or grease on the inducer blower or fan shaft. If the shaft of the main blower motor is rusted or dirty, the bearings might click as the furnace runs. This can be fixed by cleaning the blower and shaft with a brush or vacuum cleaner.
Hissing Noises
A hissing noise is usually nothing to be concerned about and is simply the sound of gas passing through the unit. However, if the noise is excessively loud or seems to be getting louder over time, it could signify a gas leak somewhere in the ductwork. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the area immediately and call your local utility company.
Whistling Noises
If you start to hear a high-pitched whistling noise coming from your furnace, it’s a sign that there is something wrong with the airflow. This could be caused by a number of things, such as a dirty air filter, blocked vents, or even a cracked heat exchanger. It may indicate that your furnace is beginning to fail.
High-pitched Squealing Noise
If you hear a high-pitched squealing noise coming from your furnace, it is likely due to an underlying problem with the blower. The blower is powered by a motor. The bearings in this motor can wear out over time, or they may become overheated. Overheating is often caused by dirt buildup or a bad capacitor.
If you notice any of these sounds coming from your furnace, it is crucial to have it inspected by a trained & qualified professional as soon as possible. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to a complete furnace failure, which could be very costly to repair.
Greetings, I’m Dallas. I’m a small business owner living in Winnipeg, MB, Canada and operate Lynn’s HVAC Winnipeg: Heating Cooling Sewer & Drain.
Lynn’s HVAC Winnipeg plumbing, heating, cooling is a small family owned and operated business since 1980. We pride ourselves on quality work completed by licensed technicians. We believe our outstanding customer service sets us apart from other Winnipeg residential plumbing, heating and cooling companies. Experience the difference and be a part of the Lynn’s family! “We provide comfort at your door!”
Services we provide:
– HVAC repair, – AC repair & install, – Furnace repair & install, – Hot water tanks, – Water heaters, – Clogged drains & sewage, – Plumbing
Areas we serve:
Winnipeg, Oakbank, Beausejour, La Salle, Ile Des Chênes, Stonewall, Niverville, Gimli, Ste. Francois Xavier, Landmark, Selkirk, Steinbach, Stony Mountain, Winnipeg Beach, Lorette & More!
