It is normal for your heating system to make some banging and popping sounds while running. Such sounds are a result of the ducts expanding and contracting. However, if the noises become louder and scarier, it might indicate that you have underlying issues that need to be fixed. If ignored, these issues could escalate to dangerous levels. Here is a look at some scary furnace noises that require hiring a heating repair contractor.
1. Booming
Most people only know that the purpose of a heating system is to warm up the space when switched on. But there are a lot of technicalities that go on behind the scene. For example, the gas valve opens after turning on the thermostat, causing the burners to ignite. However, if there is an issue with the heating system, the burners might take longer than expected to ignite, leading to gas building up in the system. As a result, when the burner finally ignites, it will produce a booming gunshot-like sound. When you notice such a noise, you need to hire a technician before the problem worsens to cause small explosions and damage to the part of the heating system. In extreme cases, the accumulated gas could even start a house fire.
2. Rattling
The rattling sound produced when the heater is malfunctioning sounds like something metallic bouncing around your furnace. This sound is annoying, and if you are a light sleeper, it could make it hard to get a good night's sleep. So what could be causing the rattles?
Various issues could cause this problem, such as loose bolts and cracks in the heat exchanger. If it is the bolts, then this is a sign that your furnace is old and wearing out, so you need to start thinking of replacing it. On the other hand, cracks in the heat exchanger could cause a dangerous carbon monoxide leak in your home. The only way to know for sure and to be safe is by hiring a heating contractor to check the system and fix the issue causing the rattling noises.
3. Squealing
The squealing sound a furnace produces is high-pitched, sometimes like whistles or screeches. Different issues in the system could cause this high-pitched sound. For instance, if your heater has a belt-driven motor, the noise could mean you have loose or worn-out blower belts. If this issue is not fixed on time, you risk the possibility of the motor overheating.
Another issue that could cause the whistling sound could be that the gas valve needs replacement. Remember that this is not a DIY project unless you are a heating contractor. You need professionals who know how to handle this type of project safely.
If your heating system produces strange noises, call a furnace repair expert immediately. The technicians will examine the system and fix the root causes of these noises. Otherwise, ignoring the problems might lead to health risks or property damage.
Reach out to an HVAC contractor to learn more about heater repairs.
Share20 January 2023
I know it can be difficult to make yourself think about getting your furnace running when the skies are sunny and the temperatures are hovering around 90, but it is the best time for you to think about your heating system. Getting ahead of the winter preparation game will help to save on the cost of the repairs because the need for furnace maintenance is usually at a low during the fall season. This blog will show you what you can do to prepare your furnace for winter and when you should hire a professional HVAC technician to take care of it for you.