Fishers, IN, winters are very unpredictable. Some days, you might walk outside and find that it’s sunny and 45°F. The next day, though, there might be two inches of snow built up right outside your door. When the latter happens, you need a heating system that your home can rely on for warmth.
Your furnace is one of the most important appliances in your home. As the days get colder, you’ll likely find yourself using the system more and more. With extended use comes a greater likelihood of breakdowns and issues. A common symptom of furnace problems is a rattling noise.
What Do Furnace Rattling Noises Mean?
Depending on when your system makes these rattling noises, there can be a couple of different problems. Unfortunately, a loud rattling sound coming from the furnace can signal that severe problems are afoot. If your system makes rattling sounds when it’s just starting to turn on, it’s likely a signal that your furnace’s heat exchanger is cracked. When this happens, carbon monoxide can very easily leak out of the system and into your home.
However, if the furnace noises mostly occur when the system has been on for a while, your problem might be elsewhere. Furnace rattling occurring while the system is already on usually has to do with loose ducts within the furnace.
What to Do about a Furnace Rattling Noise?
Because a furnace that is making a rattling sound can be very serious, it’s important to call a professional as soon as possible. If your furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, it needs to be fixed immediately before your home gets exposed to a CO leak.
Even if you believe that your furnace is making noises due to a smaller problem, such as loose ducts, have a professional come out and verify the issue. Loose ducts and other smaller issues still need to be repaired in order to prevent future issues.
Dangers of Carbon Monoxide
If your furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, it’s important to note how serious the problem could become. Carbon monoxide will most likely begin to leak out of the furnace, as the gas powering your furnace isn’t able to completely burn as it needs to.
Carbon monoxide exposure can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can become lethal. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, nausea, headaches, weakness, and more.
If you believe that your home has experienced a carbon monoxide leak, call 911 and immediately exit the home.
Contact Star for Furnace Services
For any furnace repair, maintenance, or installation needs, call a professional technician at Star Heating & Cooling today. Our technicians have the experience, knowledge, and talent to provide any heating and air conditioning service that your home might need. When you hear a furnace rattling sound and you’re not quite sure why, schedule service with an HVAC technician at Star as soon as possible. Our HVAC technicians have the parts and expertise to fix whatever issues may be plaguing your heater.