Should My Furnace Be So Noisy in Bon Air, VA?

Furnaces naturally make some noise as they turn on and off, but not all sounds are harmless. Some unusual noises can be early warning signs of bigger issues, and catching them early can save you from costly repairs down the road. Here are a few common furnace noises that might spell trouble for your Bon Air, VA home—and what they could mean.

Rattling

If you hear a light rattling, it might just be a loose panel or door—something you can usually fix by tightening a few screws. But if the noise doesn’t stop even after checking the external panels, there may be a loose internal component. In that case, turn off your furnace right away and call a professional. Trying to handle it yourself could lead to further damage or even injury.

Whistling

A high-pitched whistling sound is often a sign of restricted airflow, usually caused by a clogged air filter. A dirty filter makes your furnace work harder, which can reduce efficiency and even lead to breakdowns. To avoid this, change your filters every 60 to 90 days—or more frequently if you have pets or allergies. Regular furnace tune-ups can also help keep things running smoothly.

Clicking

It’s normal for your furnace to make a quick clicking sound when it first turns on, but if the clicking continues throughout the heating cycle, there could be a problem. Possible causes include:

• A faulty flame sensor preventing ignition
• A malfunctioning gas valve
• Issues with the fan motor or compressor

Since any of these can interfere with your furnace’s operation, it’s best to have a professional take a look.

Knocking

If you hear a knocking noise, it might mean there’s air trapped in your gas lines. An HVAC technician can safely check and remove any trapped air if necessary. Another potential cause? Dirty burners, which can lead to delayed ignition and other combustion problems.

Screeching

A loud screeching or whining sound usually points to a worn-out or slipping blower belt. It could also indicate a failing blower motor—both of which need immediate attention. If you notice high-pitched noises coming from your furnace, shut it off and schedule a repair before the issue gets worse.

If your furnace is making strange noises, don’t wait for a small issue to turn into a big repair. The experts at Americool Heating & Cooling, Inc. can quickly diagnose and fix the problem, keeping your home warm and safe all winter long.

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