As it ages and its components begin deteriorating, your HVAC system might start to make unusual noises. These aren’t usually a sign of impending catastrophic failure, but they do often indicate something needs adjustment or replacement. To help you keep up with HVAC repair and maintenance, below is your guide to the strange noises your system is making.

5 Sounds That Could Mean You Need an HVAC Repair

1. Popping or Banging

Because your HVAC system is constantly undergoing temperature changes, the metal contracts and expands a great deal. When that metal is on the older side, all that movement can result in loud banging or popping noises. But while these sounds might be annoying or even scary for young children or pets, the noises are perfectly normal and don’t indicate a problem with your system. If you find the sounds disruptive, you or an HVAC contractor can add additional insulation to help mask the sound.

2. Hissing

Hissing sounds indicate that you have a leak somewhere in your system, meaning air that should be coming into your home is escaping into your walls or outdoors. While the noise is a nuisance on its own, this problem can also lead to wasted energy and higher utility bills. If you can access the ducts in your home, feel along their length for escaping air and patch those spots with metallic foil tape to reduce hissing and keep your air moving in the direction it should.

3. Scraping

Scraping sounds are more serious, as they usually indicate a loose or broken part in your HVAC system. If this is the case, failing to address the problem promptly could lead to even more damage and a more expensive bill for you. If you hear this type of sound, turn off your HVAC system and call a professional. In the meantime, a handy homeowner can remove the hood of their system and see if any parts are obviously loose. If they seem like they can be easily tightened, feel free to do so, though you should still have a professional check for further damage.

4. Rattling

Rattling sounds coming from your ducts or vents are usually just a sign that some debris has fallen in. Pull the vent cover off near where the sound is coming from and check inside the duct with a flashlight. You may find that toys, hardware, utensils, or other small items are the culprit. If you’re not comfortable doing this on your own, or you want a more thorough duct cleaning, call an HVAC contractor.

5. Squealing

Many people will hear a squeal or squeak coming from their HVAC system when they turn it on after it has been off for an extended period of time. While this is normal, you should call for HVAC repair if the sound continues as this could indicate a problem with the motor. Whether it’s loose or worn and ready for replacement, a faulty motor should be a repair that you take care of quickly.

If you’re handy, you can try to fix this problem yourself. Turn off electricity to your furnace, open the furnace door, and access the motor. If there is any visible damage like cracking or fraying, you should replace the part to stop the squealing.

For reliable HVAC repair and maintenance, contact ABLE Heat & Cool, LLC, an experienced HVAC contractor in Troy, MO. They are family owned and operated and have served clients in and around Lincoln County for over 30 years. Specializing in heat pump, furnace, and air conditioning services, you can count on them to improve your indoor air quality. Visit their website to reach out online or call (636) 528-4794 to arrange a consultation.