It’s that time of year when people start turning on their heaters to settle in for a frigid winter. Unfortunately, when some heating systems start up, especially if it hasn’t received a seasonal heating tune-up, there are some issues that need to be assessed. A big problem you may encounter is your furnace making funny noises – read about these furnace noises you should never disregard.
Scraping Sound
If you hear a loud scraping racket that sounds like metal on metal, there is likely something defective with the blower wheel. If you hear a sound like this, turn off your furnace right away and call Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts to inspect the system. There are multiple things that could be faulty with the blower wheel. First, it could just be loose and if the component is not too impaired, can be tightened. Second, it might be that the blower wheel is broken and needs to be replaced. Or third, it may be that the motor mount actually broke, causing the entire blower assembly to shake uncontrollably. One of our service experts would be happy to come out and take a look, and get you back to the quiet and warm home you have come to expect.
Loud Bang When Furnace Starts
If there is a loud boom when your furnace kicks on, there are a handful of things that could be happening. Two common issues are a dirty furnace burner or ignitor. Extending and contracting air ducts can also create loud noises after the heating blower turns on. A filthy furnace burner or ignitor could holdup the burners from igniting, forcing gas to build up. When the gas finally does ignite, it will create the loud bang you hear. This could cause a safety issue, especially if one of these small explosions caused the heat exchanger to deteriorate. Not only could that produce a carbon monoxide leak, but you’d end up having to replace the heat exchanger, which could be very expensive.
The other issue, expanding and contracting air ducts, is a usual noise complaint for homes with metal ducts. If your system is making the loud pop and it is produced by your air ducts, it could be an indication of undersized ducts, obstructed vents, or a clogged air filter. Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts is happy to come out to diagnose your issue and get your home back in working order. Additionally, this will also provide improved comfort as well.
Whining Noise
If you hear a high-pitched noise, it could be the shaft bearings are in need of oil, there is an issue with the blower belt, or the blower motor is malfunctioning. An annual furnace tune-up will help find these issues before they become major problems so make sure you contact us at 226-773-3357 and we’ll make sure your heating equipment is ready to keep you safe and warm all winter long.