Lennox Furnace Making Strange Noises? Here's What to Do
If your Lennox furnace starts making strange noises, it’s time to consider the causes and take action. Strained mechanical parts, clogged filters, and poor maintenance can all lead to strange noises coming from your furnace. For your sanity, and the comfort of your family, it’s vital to diagnose and rectify the issue. What follows is a guide to help you identify the issue and remedy the troubling sounds coming from your Lennox furnace.
What are the Causes of Strange Furnace Noises?
Most furnace noises are created by some form of mechanical friction. This can occur between moving parts, or develop within an internal component embedded within the furnace. There are a few common causes for odd noises, including:
Mechanical Parts Stress
If your furnace's air filtering system is clogged, mechanical components can become strained. As air filters get dirty and blocked, the pressure in the furnace's incoming air line increases, compressing the components. The stress on the motor can create, or amplify, a grinding noise.
Suffocating Blower Motors
Your furnace's blower motor is responsible for circulating the heated air throughout your living space. The motor is secured to the furnace's chassis, and features bearings that can become dry or overworked. This can lead to a squeaking, or squealing noise.
Ductwork Resonance
The metal of your ductwork naturally vibrates with the rushing air, and if it's loose it can amplify these sounds. People often report hearing a strange “whooshing” sound when this problem is present.
Improper Maintenance
If your furnace has been chronically neglected and hasn't had maintenance in several years, strange noises can alert you to a problem. As time passes, combustion byproducts build up in your furnace's casing. Overweighted shift motors can lead to a weird grinding sound, and sticky gas valves might sound like a tapping, or clicking sound.
How to Diagnose Strange Noises
To diagnose strange noises in your Lennox furnace, don't rely solely on your own perceptions. After all, you're unfamiliar with this type of machinery, and interpreting odd noises isn't easy.
Instead, take a step-by-step approach to determine the source of the racket. Start by going through the basics: check your thermostat, filters, and other components. Once you've completed a visual inspection, it's time to get a little deeper into the problem.
1. Run the Furnace
If all your basic checks seem okay, it's time to turn on the fan and run through a full cycle. Don't feel comfortable doing this? Don't worry, it's time to call in a professional. A certified HVAC technician will be able to quickly diagnose the issue.
2. Check the Blower Motor
Is the fan set to the proper speed? Adjusting the speed may help reduce the noise. Make sure the air handler is properly sized and sealed, that the cover panels are secure, and that the fan motor is still in good shape.
3. Look for Air Leaks
Look for any leaks or gaps in the ductwork. If there are any, it's time to seal them up. Leaks can lead to a loud whooshing noise when the fan is running, so if the repairs are necessary, get them done quickly.
4. Clean or Replace Filters
If the filters are clogged, air flow will be restricted and your components will be strained. Clean your furnace's filters every six months, or swap them out for new ones at least once a year. This will ensure that your system is functioning optimally.
How to Stop Strange Noises
Once you've identified the source of the strange noises, it's time to take action. A certified HVAC technician will be able to diagnose and repair the problem quickly, but if you're confident in your technical abilities there are some steps you can take to fix the issue yourself.
Repair Ductwork
If you notice any loose ductwork, repair or replace it. Leaky ductwork can amplify any noise coming from your furnace, so it's important to seal up any gaps or cracks.
Tighten or Replace Motors
If your blower motor is dry or aging, it could be the cause of the noise. Lubricate the motor, or have a technician replace it if needed.
Service Your Furnace
Have your furnace serviced by a qualified professional at least once a year. A routine start-up inspection and maintenance check will identify and rectify any issues before they start to cause problems.
Upgrade Your System
If your furnace is more than 10 years old and plagued with problems, it might be wise to consider an upgrade. Modern systems are far more efficient and reliable, and can provide substantial savings in the long run.
If you're hearing strange noises coming from your Lennox furnace, don't ignore the issue. Mechanical problems can get worse if they're not attended to, and proper maintenance and inspection can help detect the source early.
If you wish to read more information about Lennox Furnace Making Strange Noises, click here. If you require further assistance, it's always recommended to call a reliable and certified appliance repair technician, like Local Reliable Appliance Repair at tel:(866) 516-1222.
Lennox Furnace Making Strange Noises
San Diego residents who own a Lennox furnace and are experiencing strange noises need to take preventive action to improve efficiency and extend the life of their unit. Here are some manufacturer recommendations, as well as local appliance and HVAC technician's recommendations to help avoid dealing with Lennox furnace making strange noises:
Manufacturer Recommendations
- Have a licensed contractor perform an annual furnace tune-up and maintenance to ensure optimal operation.
- Replace the filter regularly to increase air flow and reduce noise.
- Install sound-absorbing insulation in the furnace room to minimize the sound.
Local Appliance or HVAC Technician Recommendations
- Make sure the furnace fan motor is operating correctly. A motor that is not running correctly can cause strange noises.
- Clean the interior walls of the furnace to reduce build-up of dust, dirt and debris.
- Inspect the furnace for loose parts or faulty components, such as the blower wheels, burners, gas lines or pressure switches.
- Ensure that the air filter is the correct size for your furnace.
- Check for any debris or blockage around the blower housing and in the heat exchanger.
- Verify that the furnace is getting proper ventilation.
- Make sure the furnace is properly balanced.
Making sure that you take the appropriate preventive action can help avoid the Lennox furnace making strange noises and will improve efficiency and extend the life of your unit. By following the manufacturer and local technician recommendations, homeowners in San Diego can keep their Lennox furnace running smoothly and quietly.
Average Repair Cost for Lennox Furnace Making Strange Noises
Having a Lennox Furnace that makes strange noises can be a hassle. The repair cost for the issue in San Diego varies depending on the complexity of the problem. To pinpoint the exact cause and correctly resolve the issue, you should contact a local, reliable appliance repair service.
At Local Reliable Appliance Repair (tel:866-516-1222), they will diagnose the problem, suggest necessary repairs/replacements after a thorough inspection and clarify any necessary details and associated costs.
The most commonly replaced parts associated with this issue are:
1. Blower Motor
2. Gas Valve
3. Heat Exchanger
4. Flame Sensor
5. Limit Switch
6. Condensate Drain
The minimum repair or installation cost for the parts ranges from $200 – $300. The size, age, and type of furnace can decide the complexity of the repair which can range from $500 – $1,000. With all fees associated with the installation, the total can cost up to $2,000. The cost of labor and materials, necessary details, and fees are clarified once the problem is diagnosed.
For a reliable service and to correctly resolve the issue of Lennox Furnace Making Strange noises in San Diego, contact Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (tel:866-516-1222).
Dealing with Lennox Furnace Making Strange Noises
At times, a Lennox furnace can start to make strange noises and when it does, it is important to identify the source and get repairs done as soon as possible. In such cases, it is best to contact a reliable and experienced repair service that can help diagnose and repair the issue.
Reliable Appliance Repair is local family-owned San Diego HVAC and appliance repair company that offers same-day services and is licensed and insured. Their technicians have a minimum of 5 years experience in the field and are highly trained in tackling issues such as Lennox furnace making strange noises.
Reliable also offers fair and affordable pricing, so that customers can be sure that they are not overcharged for services. As a first-time customer, you may also be eligible for a $25 discount on labor costs. Combine this with their same-day services and you will have your furnace issue fixed quickly, easily and affordably.
Contact Reliable Appliance Repair today at (866) 516-1222 for any issues related to Lennox furnace making strange noises and enjoy the convenience of same-day service. Have your furnace fixed quickly, safely, and affordably to keep your home and family safe and comfortable.
FAQ: Lennox Furnace Making Strange Noises?
What could be the cause?
Possible causes vary and can range from standard wear and tear to serious malfunctions. To determine if the issue is minor or a more complex problem, it's best to have a professional take a look.
What should I check first?
Start by conducting a visual inspection of the furnace. Check the fan, blades, and other parts for noticeable indications of damage or wear and tear. Be sure to look for any dust or debris accumulations within the system and apply safety measures if any electrical components need to be inspected.
What type of professional should be called?
An HVAC technician should be called for further investigation. The tech can run diagnostic tests to detect any potential damage or faulty parts and provide a thorough maintenance service to clean, repair, and optimize the system for optimal efficiency.
What should I ask the technician?
The technician should be asked about their experience and specific qualifications. Additionally, ask about any safety measures they take and any guarantees they offer on their services.
What should I have a professional do?
A professional should look over the system and conduct thorough visual and diagnostic tests to determine what repairs or adjustments are necessary. Additionally, the technician should be able to clean the system and explain best practices for the furnace moving forward.
For more information on Lennox furnace making strange noises, call Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 516-1222.