Why is my heater making a loud sound?

Author: Irma Predovic  |  Last update: Thursday, January 22, 2026

If you're hearing a loud banging or booming noise, this could indicate your furnace has dirty burners. This is hazardous as it can hinder the ignition. This delay in ignition triggers a gas build-up, producing a little explosion when it finally does light. Your burners should be regularly cleaned to avoid this issue.

How to fix a loud heater?

Clean air filters

Cleaning or replacing air filters is necessary because a dirty or congested filter limits airflow, making the furnace work harder and produce more noise.

How do I stop my heater from making noise?

Turn off power to your heating system. Open the panel to the blower compartment so you can see the fan belt and motor. Check for signs of fraying and wear – a damaged fan belt needs to be replaced. If the belt is loose, it needs to be tightened – there shouldn't be more than a half inch of give in either direction.

When should I worry about my furnace noise?

Loud Bangs, Rumbles, Knocks, or Booms

Loud noises like this are a sign of a build of gas in a furnace. The noise you hear can mean your heat exchanger is at risk of cracking. Even worse, it's a sign that something dangerous could happen if you continue to use your heater.

What does a broken heater sound like?

Banging, popping and rattling noises often indicate there is a problem with the blower assembly, motor, or furnace burners. Repeated clicking noises often indicate that there is a problem with your furnace's ignition system.

Noisy Furnace? - Top 5 Fixes | Repair and Replace

What does it mean when your heater makes a loud noise?

If you're hearing a loud banging or booming noise, this could indicate your furnace has dirty burners. This is hazardous as it can hinder the ignition. This delay in ignition triggers a gas build-up, producing a little explosion when it finally does light. Your burners should be regularly cleaned to avoid this issue.

How do I know if my heater broke?

That's why our team has decided to compile a list of the signs you'll notice when your heater is broken.
  1. Odd Noises. ...
  2. Heater doesn't Warm Up. ...
  3. Increase in Energy Bills. ...
  4. Automatic Safety Switch Failure. ...
  5. Some Rooms Aren't Warming Up.

Why does my furnace sound like a plane taking off?

If your furnace is making an obnoxious noise, it's likely because the furnace blower motor is turning on and off as part of normal heating furnace cycles. Make sure your thermostat is set properly to the desired temperature and off when you don't need heat (like overnight).

Why is my furnace blower motor so loud?

Usually, it's because the bearings of the motor need to be lubricated or replaced entirely. If this is happening, you'll notice how much louder and more howl-like noises get over time until finally, they begin howling through your home. Fixing howling noises caused by a noisy blower fan is pretty simple.

What does a bad bearing sound like on a furnace?

Grinding and scraping furnace noises usually point to dry bearings within the furnace blower motor. These bearings need regular lubrication to maintain proper function. If you have a preventive maintenance plan with Estes Services, your technician handles this during an Atlanta furnace maintenance tune up.

How long do furnaces last?

The Average Furnace Lifespan

A well-maintained furnace can last at least 15 to 20 years, but completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend its life even longer.

Why is my heater making a loud buzzing sound?

A common reason for furnace buzzing is a loose transformer box. A furnace transformer regulates the incoming voltage to an appropriate voltage for the furnace to use. This is more common after a new installation. With an older furnace, the transformer may be malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.

How do I quiet a noisy furnace?

How to Quiet a Noisy Furnace Blower
  1. Check and Replace Any Loose Parts. ...
  2. Fasten the Furnace Motors. ...
  3. Oil Furnace Motors. ...
  4. Check Your Blower Fan. ...
  5. Adjust the Speed of Your Furnace Fan. ...
  6. Clean the Air Ducts. ...
  7. Fix Damaged Insulation.

Why does my furnace sound like a lawn mower?

If your furnace produces a loud humming or buzzing sound, there could be an issue with the motor. There may also be something wrong with the fan. It can be something as simple as a loose screw, loose door, or improperly installed furnace filter.

How much does it cost to replace a furnace?

First, know if you have a gas, electric or oil furnace. Electric furnace installation tends to be the least expensive, ranging between $3,000 and $7,000, according to HomeAdvisor. Installing a natural gas furnace falls in the range of $3,800 to $10,000, and an oil furnace ranges $6,750 to $10,0000.

How do I reduce the noise in my heater?

Here are a few ways to reduce HVAC noise.
  1. Seal Air Leaks. Air leaks are one of the main causes of noise in HVAC systems. ...
  2. Upgrade Your HVAC System. ...
  3. Ventilation. ...
  4. Choosing the Right Location. ...
  5. Insulating the Walls. ...
  6. Cover Your Unit Using Soundproof Materials. ...
  7. Install Flexible Ducts. ...
  8. Get Duct Silencers.

What does a bad heater blower motor sound like?

If your blower motor is experiencing some issues, you may hear a high-pitched squeal or whistling sound. You may also experience rattling and loud screeching noises. The motor blower pushes warm air out of the furnace through the ducts into your home.

How much does it cost to replace a blower motor?

Replacing a furnace blower motor costs $560, on average. Depending on the size and type of motor, most people pay $300 to $900. The average blower motor replacement cost is $560, but the final price depends on labor fees, as well as the cost of the parts.

Why does my furnace sound like a train?

If your furnace sounds like a train grinding and scraping away on tracks, then you probably have an issue with the blower wheel. The wheel may have become unmoored and is grinding or scraping against metal it shouldn't be, or another piece has become loose or stuck in the blower.

Why is my furnace so loud all of a sudden?

A clogged air filter is a common culprit behind a noisy furnace. Over time, dust, debris, and particulate matter accumulate in the filter, obstructing airflow.

What does a failing furnace sound like?

There are a variety of problems that can cause your furnace to produce loud noises. Types of noises such as scraping, banging, whistling, and popping may be a sign of a loose part, cracked heat exchanger, or dirty gas burners.

Why is my house making loud banging noises?

If you hear similar clanging or loud banging noise in the walls, it can be a sign of clogs or air pressure in the system called a water hammer. If you don't resolve the problem, it can cause damage to the pipes, so consult a professional.

How do you know if your furnace is dying?

Signs your furnace is going out include inconsistent heating, strange noises, frequent short cycling, a yellow burner flame, and higher heating bills. If it's over 15-20 years old or requires frequent repairs, it may be time for a replacement.

What is the life expectancy of a heater?

Electric radiant heating systems generally last 20 to 30 years while hydronic (water-based) systems can last even longer, up to 40 years or more, with proper maintenance. Unit Heaters: Unit heaters, which are often used in warehouses and other large spaces, can last for 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.

Where is the reset button on my furnace?

In most newer systems, the button is often directly next to the blower motor, while in older systems, it may be harder to spot as it is sometimes underneath or behind the motor. The reset button is often made of yellow or red plastic and marked with a large “R ” to make it easier to spot.

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