When winter sets in and the temperature drops, having a working furnace is essential to keep your home warm and cozy. However, if you notice your furnace making a rattling noise, it can be a sign of furnace problems. In this blog, we’ll discuss why furnaces make a rattling sound, the common reasons behind it, and what you can do to fix this issue.
What Causes a Furnace to Make a Rattling Sound?
A furnace is a complex system, and several components work together to keep it working efficiently. When the furnace starts making a rattling sound, it’s usually a sign of a loose part or damaged component. Here are some of the common reasons why your furnace is making a rattling noise:
Loose Panel
Furnaces have several panels that cover various components. Over time, these panels may come loose and start rattling when the furnace is running. A loose panel can be easily fixed by tightening the screws that hold them in place.
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter can cause furnace rattling. This happens because a clogged filter restricts airflow, causing the heating system to work harder to deliver warm air throughout your home. This extra strain can cause parts to vibrate or shake, resulting in that annoying rattling sound. The good news is that fixing this problem is simple and inexpensive. All you need to do is replace the filter with a clean one. This will not only eliminate the rattling noise but also improve the overall air quality in your home.
Blower Motor Issues
The blower motor is responsible for circulating hot air throughout your home. If the blower wheel is damaged or out of balance, it can cause rattling sounds. Bad motor bearings are notorious for making grinding noises, too. In this case, you need to get a professional technician to check and repair this important component.
Loose Bolts
One of the most common causes of rattling noise coming from an older furnace is loose bolts. Over time, the metal in a furnace can expand and contract due to exposure to heat and cold. This can cause bolts to loosen and move around, resulting in the dreaded rattling sound. If your furnace is over 15 years old and experiencing frequent rattling noises, it may be time to consider replacing it altogether, as older furnaces are more prone to wear and tear.
Cracked Heat Exchanger
A cracked heat exchanger can be the culprit behind those annoying rattling noises you hear coming from your heating system. If the heat exchanger is cracked, you’ll likely notice rattling sounds as the system starts up. A cracked heat exchanger can cause a carbon monoxide leak. To fix this issue, it is important to call a professional HVAC technician to come and inspect your furnace and heat exchanger. They will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action, which may involve replacing the heat exchanger or the entire furnace.
Loose Ducts
Ductwork is the system of pipes that transports hot air throughout your home. If the ductwork is loose or misaligned, it can cause a rattling noise when the furnace is running. You can fix this issue by checking and tightening the ductwork.
Clogged Burners
If the burners in the combustion chamber are clogged, this can cause a furnace to make loud rattling noises due to the dirt buildup and debris, which disrupts the proper flow of air and fuel within the system. This can lead to incomplete combustion, causing excess heat and pressure to build up and resulting in the rattling noises heard from the furnace. It’s important to regularly clean and maintain your furnace to ensure it’s running safely and efficiently.
Pilot Light Malfunction
A pilot light malfunction can cause furnace rattling due to low gas flow or other issues with the ignition system. Over time, a pilot light can become clogged with debris, preventing it from lighting properly. This can cause the gas to build up, leading to a clicking sound or rattling that continues after the furnace kicks on. A trained HVAC technician can clean and unclog the pilot light and ensure that your furnace is functioning safely and efficiently.
Fan Belt Issues
Furnaces that use fan belts may develop issues with the belt over time. A worn-out or loose fan belt can cause the furnace to make a rattling noise. Contact your HVAC technician to remove the old belt and replace it with a new one.
Let Us Find the Source of Your Furnace Noises
A furnace making a rattling noise can be a cause for concern, but it can also be a sign of a simple issue that’s easily fixed. If the issue persists after trying the above steps, call Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric to inspect and repair the furnace.
