Do you hear noises coming from your HVAC unit? While some sounds are normal, especially when the unit is kicking on, others may indicate a problem. One of the many furnace tune up benefits is that you can have a professional check out your furnace regularly and make sure everything is in good condition.
If you’re between tune-up appointments and you hear strange noises, you’re probably wondering if you should be concerned or not. Here are some common HVAC noises you shouldn’t ignore and what they mean.
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Clanking sounds
Some HVAC system noises are normal, including soft whirring or humming sounds. However, if those sounds begin to turn into clanking noises, it’s time to schedule a tune-up.
Clanking in an HVAC system could be caused by many different things. Some of the most common causes of this sound include:
- Loose pipes smashing together
- Loose blades
- Other loose parts
If you notice this type of sound, turn your unit off to avoid further damage. Then, contact an HVAC professional for emergency repair services.
Hissing noises
Your HVAC system should never hiss. If it does, the sound is probably caused by air escaping your system. Usually, this happens because of leaking ducts. This sound can be an indication of an expensive problem, because the more air you lose through leaks, the more money you spend on wasted energy.
An HVAC professional should be able to locate the source of the noise and make recommendations for fixing the problem. Usually, a minor leak isn’t too difficult to fix.
Rattling sounds
A rattling noise coming from your HVAC system could have various causes. If the sound is coming from your outdoor unit, debris most likely made its way into the system. Shut off power to the system temporarily while you investigate the problem. If you can find the source of the sound, simply remove it.
If you notice damage to the exterior unit when you clean it out, call an HVAC technician. He or she will let you know if the damage is severe enough to require a replacement of parts.
When rattling sounds coming from the internal unit, it could indicate a more complicated problem. As with clanking, rattling noises can indicate a loose part. It’s best to rely on a professional to locate the source of the problem.
Squealing noises
Does your HVAC system sound like it’s squealing every time it turns on? The problem could be the faulty blower or fan motors. It could also be caused by a refrigerant leak. Since leaking refrigerant can be a health hazard, it’s important to turn the system off and call an HVAC professional immediately.
Clicking sounds
Mild clicking sounds are normal when an HVAC system first turns on. However, if the clicking persists afterward, it could mean there’s a problem with the system. Clicking noises usually indicate issues with the electrical components of the system and should be addressed by a professional right away.
While some furnace noise is normal, new and unusual sounds almost always indicate there’s a problem. To keep your family safe and your furnace running optimally, it’s wise to call a technician anytime you notice a new, strange noise.
