The last thing that you want to hear are weird noises coming from the furnace, condenser unit or other associated HVAC components. In some cases, those noises might be indicative of little more than metal expanding or contracting due to temperature changes. Of course, they could also be clues of massive problems that need to be addressed immediately. Let’s take a closer look at some specific noises and what to do if you hear them.
There Is a Banging Noise in the Basement
You may be startled to hear something akin to a solid object being dropped in a duct or on top of your furnace. However, in most cases, it’s merely metal in the ductwork expanding or contracting. Often, it should pose little cause for concern as your ducts and other HVAC components are designed to move to some degree. Of course, if you’re hearing this noise frequently, it may be a sign that ducts or other HVAC components need to be repaired or replaced.
Your Furnace Rattles When in Use
If you hear a rattling or shaking noise when your furnace is in operation, it’s likely because there is a loose or broken part. It may be possible to determine which part is broken or loose simply by looking at the furnace. For instance, you may see that a fan or motor blade is broken or see that something needs to be tightened.
Of course, since a furnace or other HVAC components are complex machines, the issue might not be obvious right away. If you feel comfortable doing so, you can turn the heating or cooling system off and take a deeper look inside of the furnace or condenser unit. However, if you don’t feel comfortable messing with a complicated HVAC item, you can call a heating and AC repair professional for help.
A Whistling Noise Has You Stumped
A whistling noise coming from a duct, furnace or other HVAC component is likely caused by issues with air circulation. For instance, a duct might be loose, which is allowing air to escape. As the air gets sucked into the gap, it will make the whistling noise.
It’s also possible that a dirty air filter is causing the issue. In such a scenario, the filter is allowing air to escape around it because it can’t get through the debris. Finally, there may be air escaping through gaps around doors or windows that is causing you to hear this noise.
The easiest way to troubleshoot the issue is to first check your air filters. They are relatively lightweight, which means that it should only take a second to pick them up and take a look at them. They are also relatively inexpensive, which means that you shouldn’t hesitate to replace them if you’re at all in doubt about how the current one looks.
Another option is to inspect your ducts to check for gaps, holes or other obvious issues. The same can be done to doors, windows or any other areas where you think air is leaking out.
An energy or HVAC system audit can be ordered to get more information about where air may be escaping. In addition to getting rid of the whistling sound, sealing gaps can improve energy efficiency and make it easier to ensure that every space in your home is heated and cooled evenly.
What Does That Squealing Noise Mean?
A squealing or shrieking noise coming from the HVAC system is typically indicative of a broken belt or a part that might be improperly lubricated. In such a scenario, the best way to troubleshoot is to call an air conditioning and heating repair professional in your area to determine the scope of the issue.
While you may be able to see a broken or misaligned belt on your own, you don’t want to touch it yourself. This is because electronic components could start up with little or no warning while your hand is in their path. It may also take specialized tools to fix the issue properly that you probably don’t have in your toolbox.
If you are in need of HVAC service in Douglas, GA, call Chancey Heating & Cooling today! Our team can repair a furnace or heat pump, maintain an air conditioner, or clean out ducts in a timely and affordable manner. We can also help with issues related to ductless systems to keep your home running effectively throughout the year. We do it all and are ready to help!
