Signs Your Furnace Heat Exchanger Has Cracked

If you've been noticing unusual and disruptive noises from your furnace recently, it could signal a problem. Normally, furnaces should not make loud and disruptive noises. If you're experiencing such sounds, getting a professional to inspect your furnace and determine the root cause is essential.

This article will review common sounds that may indicate a cracked heat exchanger.

If you hear rattling or clanging sounds from your furnace, it's time for a service call. Loose parts within the furnace or improperly tightened components like ductwork connections, furnace panels, or blower motor bearings can cause this issue. A quick fix involves identifying the loose part and tightening it back in place. However, a high-pitched rattling before your furnace kicks on might indicate a cracked heat exchanger, a more serious problem that may require replacement.

If you notice a buzzing or humming sound coming from your furnace, it's likely due to an electrical issue. Addressing electrical problems promptly is crucial, and it's best to have them handled by trained professionals like our courteous and knowledgeable technicians, given the potential dangers involved. Common electrical problems that lead to buzzing or humming noises include a faulty blower motor capacitor, a bad transformer, a failing inducer motor, or a blower motor that is deteriorating or lacks lubrication.

Squealing or squeaking noises often indicate an issue with the blower or airflow maintenance. When blower motors have worn-out bearings due to overheating or age-related wear and tear, they tend to produce high-pitched squeals during operation. On the other hand, whistling sounds result from the blower struggling to pull in sufficient air for efficient functioning. This problem could be caused by a dirty air filter, closed or obstructed air vents, or dirty/damaged ducts. For whistling, you can check and ensure your vents are open and change the air filter. If these steps don't resolve the issue or if the noise resembles more of a squeal, don't hesitate to contact our HVAC professionals for a thorough diagnosis and repair of your system.

Banging and popping noises are often attributed to two common issues. Firstly, a delayed furnace ignition can cause gas to accumulate in the combustion chamber, resulting in a small explosion within the system once ignition occurs. This activity can harm your furnace and requires immediate attention to check for gas supply or pilot light problems, as well as misaligned or dirty burners. If the banging originates from your ducts, it may be due to an issue with your air filter, obstructed vents, or dirty/undersized ductwork. While some noise from the ducts is normal, excessive sounds should prompt action and investigation.

When it comes to furnace repairs, it's always best to rely on a professional to ensure the work is done correctly. While DIY repairs might seem cost-effective, simple mistakes can lead to more significant issues and higher costs in the long run. To avoid expensive repairs, consider regular preventative maintenance, scheduling inspections at least twice a year—once before the cold season and again when the weather turns warm.

For any electrical problems, issues with the gas source, or suspicions of furnace heat exchanger damage, it's crucial to have a dependable licensed HVAC technician, like ours at Advantage Air Mechanical, handle the job. Our experts guarantee high-quality repairs with the right tools and materials, giving you peace of mind and extending the lifespan of your HVAC investment.