Have you been hearing unusual or loud furnace noises lately? You should never ignore these noises because your furnace could be trying to tell you something. Every abnormal sound coming from a furnace has an underlying cause. Since some sources of furnace noises are quite serious, it’s always best to contact a professional sooner rather than later to have the noises addressed. Failure to have your furnace inspected could lead to a more costly repair in the coming weeks or months.
Here are the causes of three specific furnace noises and what technicians do to fix them:
- High-Pitched Squealing: This noise is either caused by motor shaft bearings that require oil or a loose blower belt (in a model that uses a belt). A technician will apply lightweight oil to the motor lubrication ports at the end of each shaft if that's the underlying problem. If the belt is causing furnace noises, the technician will first check the condition if the belt. If the belt is fraying, the technician replaces it. The belt might simply be loose, in which case the technician tightens it properly.
- Deep Rumbling: When rumbling occurs with the burners off, the pilot light probably needs an adjustment. A technician knows how to do this so the furnace noises will stop. A deep rumbling sound can also occur when the burners are on. The likely cause of this is that the burners are dirty. Debris can collect on the burners over time, but with a quick and expert cleaning by a knowledgeable technician, the noise will stop.
- Scraping: This is a sign that there's something seriously wrong with your furnace. The motor bearings are probably wearing out, which could lead to an expensive repair or replacement if you ignore the noise. Turn off the furnace immediately and call a professional to make the necessary repairs.
These are examples of furnace noises and their possible causes. For an accurate diagnosis of the noises you have been hearing, please contact Comfort Services in Columbia today. We've been serving South Carolina's Midlands since 1976.
