Did you know that gas furnaces can cost upward of $10,000 while electric systems cost nearly $7,000? On average, a new furnace will tally between $2,000 and $17,000 and might not even include labor expenses.
Since furnace replacements can drain your wallet, it is essential you keep your furnace maintained to prolong its lifespan and reduce costs for repairs and replacements. Have you started noticing a new furnace blower motor noise?
New or changing noises can indicate problems with the motor and increase strain on your furnace. Professionals can perform a quick systems check and save you long-term issues.
Luckily, we have a must-read guide that will review common furnace noises, what causes furnace blower motor noises, and how you can perform simple maintenance checks at home. Keep reading for more information!
Types of Furnace Noises
There are several reasons why you may have a loud furnace. Some of the primary types of furnaces noises include:
- Grinding
- Scraping
- Squealing
- Loud banging
- Clicking
- Humming
It is important to remember that all furnaces will make some type of noise, particularly when they first start. The most common start-up noises are clicking or popping. After turning on, a furnace (specifically, an older unit) might make a humming sound.
If noises persist or become louder, there could be underlying problems. Here are some of the top causes of furnace noises:
- Loose blower wheel
- Furnace blower motor issues
- Broken belt
- Clogged air filter
- Loose panels or parts
- Problems with ignition
- Problems with duct work
Regularly replacing your air filter and checking around the furnace to keep it clean is critical. Regular furnace maintenance in Denver, CO, can improve energy efficiency and safety. If you start hearing loud rattling, you could also check for any obvious loose parts that need simple tightening.
What Is a Furnace Blower Motor Noise?
How can you tell when your furnace blower is making noise? Some of the most common noises associated with your furnace blower motor are:
- Banging
- Rattling
- Squealing
There are many components that could be affecting the furnace blower motor, from loose parts to debris caught between the blades. Without prompt maintenance, repairs, or checks, you could wear out your motor and accrue costly repairs. Properly caring for your furnace blower motor can prolong your furnace’s lifespan, which typically lasts between 15 and 30 years.
The blower includes the motor, fans, and electrical system. While any one of these parts may need repairing, newer furnaces should have auto shut-off functions if electrical problems arise, like overheating.
If you start noticing your furnace turning off and on repeatedly, you could have issues with the motor, and the electrical system is overriding it for safety concerns. Other than noises, poor air flow from vents is another indicator of problems with the furnace blower motor.
When Is a Loud Furnace Problematic?
You should have an HVAC expert in Denver, CO, check your furnace if you start noticing changes in your furnace’s noises or an increase in frequency. Ultimately, an HVAC and furnace expert can check multiple components and ensure your furnace does not need replacement parts or a new unit. Here are some ways a technician can fix a loud furnace blower motor:
- Repairing loose parts or bolts
- Using insulation foam or replacing insulation
- Securing the furnace motor
- Replacing mounting grommets
- Adjusting blade alignment
Furnace repairs, such as replacing your blower motor, and regular maintenance checks can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars compared to a new furnace installation. HVAC technician experts in Denver, CO, are specialized in several types of furnaces and HVACs and will perform thorough testing and tune-ups to decrease loud noises, improve safety, and improve energy efficiency.
How To Decrease Furnace Noises at Home
You might wonder if there are simple ways to decrease furnace noises without professional help. While it is always best to consult with a professional, there are a few simple ways you can perform regular maintenance checks, such as:
- Lubricate motor and bearings
- Check the fan for debris or apparent blockage
- Clean around the furnace
- Replace the air filter
- Reduce blower speeds
Depending on your experience or expertise level, you can add insulation to ductwork or near the blower intake to reduce sounds. However, checking for debris and replacing air filters are the two safest and easiest ways most homeowners in Denver, CO, can utilize to take care of their furnace blower.
HVAC units (including air conditioners) need air filter replacements at least every three months. If you use your furnace frequently, own pets, or have family members with indoor allergies, you should replace your air filter about every two months.
While not directly tied to the motor, replacing air filters reduces strain on the system and allows your motor to function smoothly. It also boosts indoor air quality and reduces energy consumption.
Furnace Maintenance in Denver, CO
Now that the weather is cooling, it is an excellent time to schedule furnace maintenance and tune-up. Annual to bi-annual HVAC checks ensure your unit is functioning properly and safely before kicking it into full gear. Furnace maintenance checks can also catch gas leaks, CO2 concerns, pilot lights, and thermostats to ensure your family’s safety this winter.
Stop Loud Furnace Blower Motor Noises
Have you wondered how to reduce your furnace blower motor noise? Loud noises and rattling can indicate larger problems, such as blocked blades, loose bearings, or worn-out motors.
You should always consult a professional technician before attempting any repairs. If you can’t see any obvious blockage, loose parts, or clogged air filters, the experts at Doctor Fix It Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric in Denver, CO, can help.
Call us today and schedule a furnace maintenance check and let one of our experts help you determine the cause of your loud furnace.
