Why Is My Furnace So Loud?

Furnaces make life in the colder months much more bearable, but when they start making strange noises, it can be a cause for concern. While a loud furnace is better than a monster in the basement, these sounds can be disruptive to your daily routine and may indicate a problem that needs to be addressed quickly.

Common Causes of a Loud Furnace

A loud furnace can be caused by several factors. Identifying the cause of the problem is will help restore your furnace to its normal operating level. Here are some of the most common causes of a loud furnace:

Dirty Air Filter

A dirty air filter is a common cause of furnace noise. When an air filter is clogged with dirt and debris, it restricts airflow and causes the furnace to work harder to distribute heat. This extra strain can result in increased noise levels.

To fix this issue, you should check your air filter regularly and replace it every 1-3 months, depending on usage. This simple maintenance task can not only reduce noise but also improve the efficiency and longevity of your furnace.

Loose or Damaged Components

Loose or damaged components, such as the blower wheel or blower motor, can cause a variety of noises, including rattling, humming, or screeching sounds. Loose parts can also cause vibrations, which can further amplify noise levels.

If you suspect that loose or damaged components are the cause of your furnace noise, it's important to address the issue promptly. Tightening loose parts or replacing damaged components can prevent further damage and improve the overall performance of your furnace.

Blower Motor Issues

The blower motor is responsible for circulating warm air throughout your home. When the blower motor is not working properly, it can result in reduced airflow and increased noise levels.

Ductwork Problems

Damaged, broken or improperly installed ductwork can cause a variety of issues. When air is passing through ducts that are too small or that have leaks or obstructions, it can create an annoying whistling or hissing sound.

Other Factors that Affect Furnace Noise

Here are some other factors that may cause your furnace to make noise or malfunction:

Age of the Furnace

Like most appliances, your furnace may become noisier due to wear and tear on its components and use over time. Older furnaces are also generally less energy-efficient, which can cause them to work harder and make more noise. If you’ve noticed your old furnace getting louder, it might be time to consider installing a new furnace.



Furnace Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of your furnace can also affect its noise levels. If your furnace is too large for your home, it may cycle on and off frequently, creating noise each time it starts up. The same goes for if your furnace is too small. A small furnace may struggle to heat your home, which can also result in increased noise levels since it will be harder to meet your home’s needs.

When having a furnace installed it is very important to make sure it is the right size for your home.

Best Ways To Prevent Furnace Noise

Proper Installation

First and foremost, proper furnace installation is key. A furnace not installed correctly or one that is not the right size or type for the home will continue to give you issues as it won’t be operating at an optimal level. This will also help prevent other safety hazards. 

To make sure your new furnace is the right fit for your home, be sure to choose a reputable HVAC company like Suburban Heating and Cooling. Our team of technicians will make sure your furnace is right for your space and installed properly.

Regular Maintenance

Scheduling regular furnace maintenance with an HVAC technician will make your life a whole lot easier when it comes to your furnace having issues. Scheduling regular maintenance will help keep your furnace operating at its optimal levels, which in turn will give you a more comfortable living experience.

Regular maintenance also helps prevent surprising and costly furnace breakdowns and can also help keep your energy bills low.

Have a Loud Furnace? Call Suburban Heating & Cooling!

If your furnace is repeatedly making unwanted noise, contact Suburban Heating & Cooling to get one of our trained HVAC technicians to come take a look at your furnace system. Together we can get rid of that loud furnace so life in your home can get back to normal!