Your furnace is an investment, and it helps to keep your home comfortable. This investment requires regular maintenance for it to last a long time. At the same time, your old furnace, although functional, might probably cost you more than a new model in terms of efficiency and money. If you are also suffering from the same issues, we advise you to call the certified technicians like Furnasman Right Time for repair and replacement. You can call these HVAC experts to know how efficient your furnace is and whether your old model requires a replacement or not. Another common issue that requires an expert’s attention is a rattling noise emitting from your furnace that calls for immediate expert assistance.
The Reason for the Rattling Noise
Before you jump the gun and decide that your furnace is dying, check the panel. It could be something as simple as a loose screw that is causing the front panel to rattle while the furnace is in operation. You can take a screwdriver and tighten the screw to get rid of the noise. Just remember to turn off the furnace before you do this.
In case after tightening the front panel, the rattling noise continues, it is a sign that there is a bigger problem on your hand. The other reason for a rattling noise coming from your furnace could be due to a problematic heat exchanger. When the exchanger develops a crack or a leak, it can make noises.
If you suspect a problem with the heat exchanger of the furnace, don’t wait to get a professional. A cracked or leaking exchanger can result in carbon monoxide leak in your home, and this could be fatal. Get an expert to visit your property right away to address the rattling noise and fix any problem that the furnace may have.
Causes for Other Noises
Besides rattling, your furnace may emit other strange noises. Just remember if this is the case, there will be a reason for it.
- Screeching Noises: If, along with the rattling noise, your furnace also makes a screeching sound, there is a problem either with the blower motor or the bearings of the motor. In all probability, the motor needs lubrication, or the fan will stop working, leading to an expensive repair. So, get a technician to perform the lubrication is you are unfamiliar with it. Use this opportunity also to get the maintenance done.
- Clanking noises: Sometimes, the furnace may make clanking noises, as though metal is grinding against metal. This is a major problem and has to do with the blower wheel. The noises indicate that the blower wheel is loose and is banging against the blower housing case. Do not ignore this problem. Switch off your furnace and call a technician right away. It will require minimal repair if you act promptly. If not, you will cause major damage to the blower fan and will have to spend a lot to replace it.
- Squealing Noises: Some furnaces have belt-driven motors, and this makes it necessary to lubricate all the moving components. Otherwise, the belt will get loose, resulting in squealing noises. These noises can also occur if the moving components or shaft bearings get dry. Remember, with time, the belt of the motor would have to be replaced as it will get stretched with constant use. Replacing a worn-out belt or tightening a loosened belt should always be done by a qualified professional.
- Banging Noises: These noises indicate that the burners in your furnace are dirty and need to be cleaned immediately. Dirty burners can delay ignition, resulting in gas buildup. Hence, you hear the banging noises when you turn on the ignition. You should ensure that the burners are regularly cleaned to avoid the occurrence of these noises. Another reason for banging or booming noises is an incorrect mixture of air and gas. Get a professional to adjust the gas-to-air ratio so that the noises do not occur.
- Squeaking Noises: You will hear squeaking noises if the duct has been fixed too tight. Usually, you would have to walk near the furnace to hear the squeaks. These noises can also occur if the metal panning has not been properly installed. You can prevent the duct from squeaking by reinforcing it, and if the technician reinstalls the metal panning, the squeaks on account of this should disappear.
Having a loud furnace at your residence that rattles and makes weird sounds can be annoying and unnerving. Now that you know the reasons for the noises, there is no need to get worked up. Instead, call a certified, experienced, and qualified technician to inspect your furnace and recommend the most appropriate fix.
