If the sound is louder than typical and lasts longer than normal, it can be a sign of a problem with dirty burners, high gas pressure, or a malfunctioning heat exchanger, all of which could compromise the equipment's functionality and safety.
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.
A low hum is normal while the furnace runs, but if the noise is loud during a cycle or comes on when it wasn't present before, there could be an issue with the fan or capacitor.
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).
Blocked or closed vents can cause increased sound pressure as the furnace blower motor and fan push air through, resulting in a “jet engine” sound.
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.
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.
A yellow flame is a clear sign that the gas is not burning properly. Dirty or partially blocked systems can produce this. It's also another sign that a call to your trusted HVAC contractor is needed to save money and keep you a bit safer.
Most frequently, the cause of a noisy radiator is air being trapped inside the system. If this is the case, it is recommended to fix this issue as soon as you can. If you find you can hear noisy pipes (especially during colder weather) this could be down to a frozen condensate pipe.
A loud knocking noise coming from your furnace might indicate old, dirty burners or a faulty gas valve. Loud knock-like bangs are often a standard indicator of repetitive gas ignition. When furnace burners are covered in rust or grime, they don't efficiently heat the air or the gas around them.
Ask twenty professional HVAC contractors the question, “How Much Does A New Furnace Cost?” and you'll probably get the same answer... “It depends.” On average, the cost of a new furnace can range from $2,000 - $14,2001. However, factors like furnace efficiency, type, size, and much more can impact this range.
Check all belts and replace any that are damaged or worn out. Also, check for loose screws in both fans and vents and tighten them if necessary. If your furnace uses two separate fan units (one on each side), be sure to check the screws on both of them.
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.
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.
A Leading Cause of Fires
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that approximately 1,200 fires a year are caused by portable electric space heaters.
You Should Not Leave Space Heaters on Unattended
We do not recommend using space heaters at all because of this risk, but you definitely should not use them at night.
If the sound is louder than typical and lasts longer than normal, it can be a sign of a problem with dirty burners, high gas pressure, or a malfunctioning heat exchanger, all of which could compromise the equipment's functionality and safety.
Rattling (Inside the House), Clanking or Banging
Like “thwapping,” these sounds could be related to the furnace's blower assembly or motor, and are likely due to something being either loose or broken. If you hear louder banging sounds when the blower is running, shut the system off until you can get help.
Instead, you should take immediate action and contact an HVAC professional. A cracked heat exchanger can produce different sounds, including popping, banging, whistling, or scraping.
– Check if the noise is coming from loose panels or ductwork and tighten them if needed. – Next, clean or replace the air filter as a clogged filter can cause excessive noise. – Additionally, lubricate any moving parts such as the blower motor and fan blades.
While costs can vary, homeowners can typically expect the following range: Standard Blower Motors: These might cost between $400-700, excluding labor. Advanced Multi-Speed or Variable-Speed Motors: These are generally more expensive, with costs ranging between $650-1250, not including labor.
On a normal day, your home's furnace might make a little noise as it starts up, when it's turning on, and then when it turns off. You can always expect to hear some noise from the furnace. The thing about this noise is that it should never be disruptive.