Oh, no! What’s that noise? Is there a problem with the furnace? Many issues that furnaces encounter do cause them to make unusual noises. Hearing a strange sound is often the first sign a homeowner gets that it is time to schedule furnace repair.
We’ll go over three of the most important things to listen for.
1: Boom
If your furnace starts up with a bit of a delay and then a whoosh-BOOM sound, like a larger version of a propane grill being started, it’s time for furnace repair in Castroville, TX. This is the sound of delayed ignition, which means that too much fuel is allowed out before the spark is triggered to light it. This can be caused by the gas pressure being too low, the burner having a clog, or even something as simple as a dirty flame sensor. Not only is this a waste of fuel that you’ll be paying for when your next utility bill arrives, but it also puts unnecessary strain on the rest of the system and increases the risk that you’ll need other repairs.
2: Shriek
Many furnaces have a belt that connects the motor to the fan. If this belt loosens or develops a crack or tear, it may cause a screeching sound. This part is very straightforward to replace, but if you don’t have it repaired, it may come completely loose or snap through. The belt flying free in your furnace cabinet could do a lot of damage to other components, turning what could have been a small repair into a completely broken-down system.
3: Click
There are many things that can cause a clicking sound to come from your furnace, even something as small as a panel not being screwed down tightly, so it clicks against the body of the furnace when it vibrates. With luck, if you hear this, the repair will be simple and boring. However, there is one cause of furnace clicking that is an actual emergency, so you should never ignore this sound.
The heat exchanger is a part that is critical to both the safety and functionality of your furnace. It contains combustion gasses and gets very hot, and the air is passed over it to carry that heat through your home. Constant heating cycles create expansion and contraction, which can eventually cause the heat exchanger to crack. The combustion gasses would no longer be safely contained, and you and your family would be at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Clicking sounds at the end of the heating cycle, when the heat exchanger begins to cool down, can be a sign that there is a crack. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working, and get repairs immediately!
Other Sounds to Listen For
Rattling, clattering, grinding, groaning, and rumbling can all indicate that you need furnace repair. Any unexpected noise is a good reason for a professional to check out your heater, so pay attention to the usual sounds of your furnace operating and keep an ear out for any changes.
Contact D’Spain Sales & Service with any questions about your furnace.
