Furnace Noises And What They Mean
Is your furnace having issues and hearing it make strange noises? You're not alone. Furnace noises can range from harmless hums to alarming bangs—and knowing the difference is essential for your home's safety and comfort.
In this post, we’ll break down common furnace noises and what they mean, helping you identify potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. Whether you're hearing rattling, popping, or high-pitched squeals, we’ll help you decode the sounds and know when it’s time to call in a professional.
Some of the common furnace noises that require attention include:
- Whistling
- Vibration
- Banging
We'll explore each of these in detail below.
Whistling
One of the biggest reasons the furnace may start whistling is a clogged filter. When the filter becomes clogged, the furnace will try to suck air from wherever it can.
Any spaces or holes in the furnace filter can make a whistling sound if air is being sucked through them. Replacing the filter every three months can help prevent this from occurring.
Vibrating
Loose ducts are the most likely cause when the furnace is putting off a rattling vibration-type noise. Securing the loose ducts with extra screws and duct tape can usually solve the issue.
Banging
If a banging noise occurs when the furnace turns on, it is likely to be one of two issues. The ductwork could be flexing when the pressure changes or it could be a small explosion called an ignition roll-out.
If the furnace is making some loud, unfamiliar noises when it gets turned on this season, give Diamond Heating and Cooling a call. They can get to the root problem and get the furnace system running smoothly and quietly, again.
Clicking
A clicking sound from your furnace might seem harmless, but it can point to underlying issues that shouldn't be ignored. Common causes include ignition system issues, faulty relay or control board, or loose parts.
If the clicking continues beyond startup, especially if your furnace won’t turn on, it’s best to contact a technician to inspect the ignition system or electrical controls.
Rattling
A rattling furnace often signals something has come loose or is out of place. You might hear this sound when the system starts up or while it’s running. Possible causes include loose panels or screws, debris in the blower fan, or cracked heat exchanger
to fix you can start by turning off your furnace and checking for loose screws or panels. If the rattling persists or becomes more intense, call an HVAC professional to inspect the internal components and rule out serious issues.
If you have furnace issues and live in Boise, be sure to give us a call at (208) 273-9193 or contact us online for furnace repair in Boise.