We’ve all grown used to the sound of our HVAC system kicking on and off, or air pushing through the vents - but if you’ve been overlooking some irregular noises coming from your system, we are here to help. While a little bit of noise is completely normal, there are a few things you should look out for in order to preserve the life of your system and save yourself some hard-earned dollars. Here are some common red flags when it comes to your HVAC system:
Hissing noise
If you’re hearing a loud hissing noise, this could mean that there is an air leak somewhere in your system. If the noise is coming from your walls, it is possible that your ducts are leaking. If you are experiencing this issue we recommend contacting a technician unless you are familiar with duct work and HVAC systems.
On the other hand, a hissing noise may originate from your vents. Before you panic thinking that you have leaky duct work, check to see that you have the proper size filter, and that it has been installed correctly (no gaps, laying flush). If everything seems satisfactory here, but you still hear a noise, contact a technician to come take a look for you. Not only are noisy air leaks bothersome, they can potentially be costly.
Rattling noise
There are a couple different things that could cause rattling noises within your system. There is a chance that a component of your HVAC system is damaged. If you can see visible damage, or the rattling sounds like its coming from inside of the furnace or another component, contact a technician, as this may require replacement of parts.
If the noise is coming from your outside unit and you see no visible damage, some debris may have penetrated the grate. If this is the case, you may be able to remove the debris yourself. But before you do so, turn your system and the power to the unit off.
Clanking noise
Clanking noises are a huge red flag. Loose parts (such as a fan motor, blades, pipes, etc.) can often cause this sound. If you hear something like this, it is best to turn off your system to avoid damage and call a technician.
With all of this in mind, know that it is completely normal for your HVAC system to make certain types of noises. But if you notice any of the noises mentioned above, be aware that there may be an underlying issue that shouldn’t be ignored.