If you have recently purchased a new furnace and have found that it is louder than your previous one, you might worry that something is wrong with your unit. Rest assured, this is a common misconception. New models are often louder than old ones for a number of reasons. Let’s explore these below.
It Is Built To Do More
Older furnaces typically only have a blower motor that is used to regulate the heat. Over the decades, homeowners then had the option of adding an air conditioner. The AC unit would work, but definitely not as well as a system that was specifically designed to both heat and cool. Your new furnace may just be noisier because it was designed to do more than your older one.
It Is Larger in Size
One reason that your older furnace was quieter than your new one is that pretty much everything that was part of its system was smaller. Older systems had smaller blower motors and cabinets. They also had a smaller duct system. All of these smaller parts contributed to your older furnace not being as efficient as your new one. For example, a smaller duct system could contribute to less air circulating through your home. This means that your new furnace is noisier because the larger size of its components allows you to receive more airflow.
It Has a Variable-Speed Air Handler
One major difference that your new furnace has over your old one is that it has a variable-speed air handler. Older furnaces only had air handlers with one speed. Variable-speed air handlers, on the other hand, can operate at multiple speeds. It all depends on whatever your airflow requirements are. So, if you are finding that your new furnace is too noisy, you have the ability to adjust the air handler to a lower setting, which should quiet it down for you.
Noises to Watch For
If you start hearing noises that seem to be beyond normal operational sounds with your new furnace, do not hesitate to call a professional. Here are some sounds that could indicate there is a real issue with your new furnace:
Scraping
If you hear a scraping sound like metal on metal, it could potentially be an issue with the blower wheel. This could mean that the blower wheel is broken or has become loose. If you hear a sound like this, turn off your furnace immediately.
Squealing or Screeching
When you hear a squealing or screeching sound, it could be an indicator that something is going wrong with the blower motor or a broken belt. A blower motor can usually be helped by lubricating the motor bearings, while a broken belt is addressed by replacing it.
Whistling
A whistling sound can also be an indicator that something is happening with the blower motor. This can be due to low airflow that is causing the blower motor to strain, leading to the whistling sound. This may be remedied by changing the air filter or opening all the vents.
Banging and Popping Sounds
Banging and popping sounds are actually pretty normal for a furnace and can just be from the ducts expanding and contracting. However, if the sounds are loud and frequent, this could be an indicator of an actual issue with the ductwork or a dirty burner.
Rattling
A rattling sound may be from a loose panel, door, or part.
Rumbling
A rumbling sound may happen when your furnace completes a cycle, and that could indicate a serious problem. When this sound occurs, it may mean that there is an issue with the burner. The rumbling is caused by fuel continuing to burn even though the burners are turned off.
If you hear this sound, be sure to call in a professional immediately to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Clicking
It is normal to hear a clicking sound when you fire up your furnace. However, if the clicking continues, it could mean there is an issue with the ignition system.
Calling In a Professional
If you are concerned that your new furnace is louder than your old one, it is best to be safe. At Quality Cooling & Heating, we have been serving the Austin, TX, and Abilene areas since 1984. Since day one, we have given our customers a commitment to quality service, workmanship, and professionalism. We are proud to offer heating and AC repair, installation, and maintenance as well as assistance with duct cleaning, indoor air quality, and carbon monoxide detection.
Give Quality Cooling & Heating a call today to have us inspect your furnace or for any of your other heating and cooling needs.
