5 HVAC Noises That You Should Never Ignore

It’s common for HVAC systems to make some noise during normal operation. Over time, homeowners tend to get accustomed to these noises and completely tune them out. Although some noises from your HVAC system are normal, others may indicate serious problems. You should never ignore the following HVAC noises in your Cleburne, Texas, home:

Banging

A loud banging is one of the most common sounds that homeowners notice coming from their HVAC system. Although common, you shouldn’t ignore banging noises. There are two main reasons you might hear a loud banging noise coming from your HVAC system.

If your home has metal ducts, their expansion and contraction could cause a banging sound from time to time. If the noises continue, you may need to upgrade the size of your air vents to better accommodate the airflow.

Continuous banging can also indicate that you have an ignition problem. A banging noise often occurs when the gas valve has opened but is unable to light. Without the ignition, you won’t have heat in your home. A problem with the ignition is a serious problem. Therefore, you should turn off the gas supply and call for service immediately.

Cracking

Your HVAC system relies on evaporator coils. These coils may no longer work if debris build up on them or if they become frozen. The cracking noise that you hear usually occurs as the frozen coils begin to melt. Regularly scheduled maintenance and inspections can help you identify these issues early. As a result, a professional will be able to repair the problem before it worsens.

Squealing

Squealing noises usually indicate that there’s a problem with your system’s fan motor. It’s possible the motor’s parts are misaligned. It’s also possible the squealing noise is coming from the air compressor. To determine the exact cause and its severity, you’ll need an inspection.

Booming

A loud boom coming from your HVAC unit can be scary. One minute you’re going about your day, and the next you’re jumping from the random loud booming noise. It might be a good thing that this noise elicits such alarm because ignoring it can be especially dangerous. A loud booming sound could result from a gas buildup. If ignored, this buildup could eventually crack the heat exchanger and disable your HVAC system.

Rattling

It’s possible for the parts inside of your HVAC unit to loosen over time. A rattling, scraping or metal-on-metal sound can indicate that there are loose components. Whether it’s the motor or the fan’s blades, these parts will only get looser if you don’t have them tightened.

A rattling noise can also indicate that one of the crucial parts of the unit is broken. If the rattling continues to get worse, one of the parts may be completely broken or disconnected. In this case, it’s important to turn off your unit and call for service immediately.

Schedule Service

Some minimal noises are to be expected from your HVAC system. However, if you hear any concerning noises, such as loud banging, cracking, squealing, booming, or rattling, it’s best to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

Putting off an inspection can only worsen the problem, and this can lead to even more expensive repairs down the road. It’s also possible that you’ll have to completely replace your unit if you ignore the problem for too long. Additionally, it is important to keep safety in mind. Failing to listen to your HVAC unit’s warning signals can put you and your family in danger.

With decades of experience in the HVAC industry, Airmasters AC, Heat, Plumbing & Electrical will ensure that your unit is safe and functioning properly. If you notice any alarming sounds coming from your HVAC system, call us at 817-506-4862.

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