There’s a chill in the air and you reach for your thermostat to crank up the heat. Suddenly, you hear it–a loud popping sound as your furnace kicks on. Or perhaps your furnace sounds normal, but just a lot louder than you remember from last year. Homeowners here in Indiana contact us at Area Sheet Metal Heating & Cooling with heating questions, including “why is my furnace so loud?”
If this heating question is weighing on your mind, here are a few scenarios:
Even though your furnace works hard to keep your home warm, this machine shouldn’t whistle while it works. A whistling furnace may indicate that there are small gaps in the duct. Luckily, this is typically an easy fix that some homeowners can even do on their own.
A whistling noise may also indicate that your filter is clogged. The tiniest holes can make a loud whistling noise if a lot of air is being sucked through them by the fan. If you find that your furnace filter is caked with dirt and grime, you should consider replacing it..
If your furnace is rattling and vibrating, it’s trying to tell you a few different things. The cause may point to loose furnace ducts, which just require tightening of a few loose screws. Another quick fix includes adding duct tape to the ducts or even cork pads underneath the furnace.
On the other hand, worn-out bearings may also result in rattling and vibrating. If this is the case, you’ll need to contact Area Sheet Metal for help.
If your furnace sounds like nails down a chalkboard, this is a red flag that you need to contact a heating repair professional immediately. A screeching noise coming from your furnace may indicate that something is wrong with the blower wheel. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible, since it may mean that the blower assembly is about to drop.
A popping noise is another sound from your furnace that you shouldn’t ignore. When your furnace makes a popping or banging sound, it can mean that the furnace burners are dirty. While this may not sound like a big deal, it causes an excess of gas to build up. As the gas ignites, you’ll hear a loud bang or pop. The good news is that furnace maintenance can help you prevent this issue.
The lifespan of a furnace is something every homeowner should be aware of. On average, a well-maintained furnace can serve your home for about 20 years. In addition to loud sounds, your furnace may need repair or maintenance if you notice the following problems:
A notable increase in your heating bills, despite consistent usage patterns, suggests your furnace's efficiency is declining. Older furnaces lose their ability to heat your home efficiently, causing them to run longer to maintain the same level of warmth, which in turn increases your energy costs. Upgrading to a more efficient model can reduce your heating bills significantly.
If you find yourself repeatedly calling for repairs, especially during the peak heating season, this is a sign your furnace is nearing the end of its useful life. The cost of frequent repairs can quickly add up, but preventative maintenance can alleviate these issues.
Experiencing inconsistent temperatures throughout your home could be a sign of a failing furnace. As furnaces age, they struggle to distribute air evenly, leading to hot and cold spots.
An increase in dust, soot, or rust particles around the furnace or throughout your home can indicate a decline in your furnace's ability to clean and humidify the air. This not only affects your home's air quality but also points to an inefficient and deteriorating furnace system.
Physical signs of wear and tear on your furnace, such as rusting, cracks, or corrosion, are clear indicators that your furnace may no longer be safe or effective. These physical signs often signal deep-rooted problems that are not worth the cost of repair.
Considering a new furnace can be daunting, but the benefits of modern, energy-efficient models are undeniable. Not only do they offer improved comfort and lower energy costs, but they also come with advanced features that enhance safety, reduce environmental impact, and provide a more consistent heating experience. When faced with the signs mentioned above, homeowners should seriously consider joining our Discount Club to prevent these issues.
If your furnace is making funky noises that you can’t put your finger on, contact Area Sheet Metal Heating & Cooling today!