If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your furnace until it’s time to turn it on in the fall. And even then, it’s only if you’re greeted by a blast of cold air coming from your vents. But if you hear a clicking noise coming from your furnace, it’s important to have a professional take a look at it as soon as possible. Keep reading to find out what could be causing the clicking and is a clicking furnace dangerous?
Why is my furnace clicking?
A clicking furnace is a problem that can occur in any type of furnace, but is more common in gas furnaces. The clicking noise is usually caused by the draft inducer motor, which is used to create a draft for the furnace. When the inducer motor starts to wear out, it can start making a clicking noise.
One likely issue is that there is something wrong with the ignition system. There are a few things that could be causing this issue, such as a bad igniter or cracked heat exchanger. If left untreated, either of these issues could lead to a dangerous situation.
Another common issue is when the blower motor starts to go bad. The clicking noise is the blades of the fan hitting the housing as they start to spin. This can be dangerous because it can eventually lead to the fan blades coming off.
The first step in determining what is causing the clicking noise is to turn off your furnace and call a professional to take a look. Once they have determined the cause of the problem, they can help you decide if it needs to be fixed immediately or if it can wait until your next scheduled maintenance appointment.
Why is my furnace rattling?
Rattling sounds coming from your furnace could indicate a minor problem, like a loose screw. In some cases, the rattling may be caused by a foreign object that’s gotten lodged in the furnace. This could be something as harmless as a piece of paper or a wasp’s nest. Or they can signal a severe issue, like a broken furnace component. When you hear rattling, it’s advisable to immediately shut off your furnace and contact a professional. A knowledgeable furnace repair service technician will inspect the system to diagnose the cause of the rattling and recommend the best solution.
Why is my furnace rumbling?
If you’re hearing a rumbling noise coming from your furnace, it’s important to determine what’s causing it and what to look for.
Grime buildup on the furnace’s heating elements can strain the system, creating a rumbling noise. Over time, this grime can build up and create friction between the elements, causing the noise. These noises could also indicate a severe mechanical issue or a leak in the heat exchanger. A leak in the heat exchanger can be dangerous because it allows carbon monoxide gas to leak into your home. This gas is poisonous and can cause serious health problems, so it’s important to take any furnace noises seriously and have them inspected by a professional.
What are the consequences of not addressing a furnace clicking issue?
If your furnace is clicking, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible. Failing to do so can lead to several consequences, including:
- Increased energy consumption: A clicking furnace may not be operating at its full capacity, which can lead to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
- Premature system failure: If the problem isn’t addressed, the clicking may cause it to eventually fail. This could leave you without heat in the middle of winter or cause extensive damage to your home.
- Dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning: A faulty furnace can produce high levels of carbon monoxide, a deadly, odorless gas that can cause serious issues.
It’s important to be aware of the dangers of a clicking furnace, as it can be a sign of a problem that needs to be fixed. Ignoring the problem could lead to a dangerous situation.
