Macon, GA is a diverse part of The Peach State with an array of wonderful communities to live in. If you’re a homeowner in the Macon area, it’s important to keep your furnace running smoothly during the cold winter months. There may be a time when you notice a loud noise coming from the blower motor on your furnace, but what does that mean, and what causes it?
The experts at Ricky Heath Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling have some helpful information about common sounds you might hear and reasons why your furnace blower motor is making those strange loud noises.
Common Noises a Failing Furnace Blower Motor Might Make
A furnace blower motor is an electric motor designed to help circulate air throughout your home. This key furnace component helps the system run more efficiently. The motor works by spinning fan blades with a belt. As the blades spin, they push warm air out of the furnace and into your home to keep you comfortable.
What are some of the noises that a failing furnace blower might make? You may hear the following sounds if they’re related to the blower motor:
- Rattling
- Screeching or squealing
- Grinding or scraping
- Buzzing
- Thumping or banging
If you hear any of these noises, don’t panic. Each sound has an underlying cause that can usually be addressed and repaired by an experienced HVAC technician. Once you understand the causes of these noises, you’re better equipped to make an informed decision about how to handle them to keep your home comfortable when it’s cold outside.
Why Your Furnace Blower Motor Is Making Loud Noises
If you hear any of these sounds, you’re probably wondering why the blower motor is so loud. Here are some of the most common causes of a loud blower motor on your furnace.
1. Loose or worn blower motor parts
The furnace blower motor consists of several parts, including bearings. If the bearings are worn out, they typically create a high-pitched squealing or whining sound as they begin to wear down. If the motor shaft is damaged, it causes a strange noise, occasionally accompanied by a burning smell.
If the motor is loose, it may start to vibrate, creating annoying rattling noises whenever it operates. Another possible cause is a defective capacitor, which causes the motor to start and stop frequently, creating constant clicking or buzzing sounds.
2. Dirty or clogged air filters
Maintaining a clean air filter is important for good airflow and energy efficiency. However, if your air filter is dirty or clogged, it can create several problems, including putting extra stress and strain on the blower motor. A clogged filter causes the motor to work harder, possibly creating a high-pitched whistling or screeching sound.
You should replace your furnace air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually every 30 to 90 days) to maintain maximum efficiency, ensure good indoor air quality, and prevent costly breakdowns. Inspect the air filter regularly to confirm it’s clean and free of dust, dirt, and other debris.
3. Aging furnace blower motor
All furnace components eventually wear out due to age and normal wear and tear. If your furnace is older than 10 to 15 years, the noises you hear could be due to the blower motor getting older and starting to break down.
The pros at Ricky Heath are available to troubleshoot your furnace blower motor and other furnace parts to confirm everything is in good shape. We may recommend replacing specific parts or suggest a complete furnace upgrade, depending on the severity of the problem.
4. Loose or unbalanced blower fan
Has a ceiling fan in your home ever started to make unusual noises? If so, those noises are often a result of the fan having unbalanced blades. The same principle is true for a furnace blower fan, which is a key part of the motor.
If the blower motor fan and/or its blades suddenly become imbalanced or if the fan is loose, the uneven rotation might create a strange noise. Dirt on the fan blades can also cause this problem, so try to keep them clean to avoid hearing these strange noises.
5. Loose fan belt
The fan belt may start to eventually slip due to a lack of tension. This is usually accompanied by inconsistent airflow and constant vibrations. If you have a loose fan belt, you’ll likely notice a whining noise or a high-pitched squealing sound.
Fortunately, a loose fan belt is usually easy to fix. Adjusting the fan belt helps it operate at the proper tension to prevent noises and keep your furnace running smoothly.
6. Improperly sized furnace
If the furnace in your home is too small, the blower motor can’t push air through the ductwork correctly. This may result in cold spots, uneven heating, and longer run times that could result in overheating. If it’s too large, it might cause your furnace to turn on and off repeatedly. Short cycling leads to inconsistent heating and excess wear and tear. Both of these issues can cause the blower motor to make banging or rattling noises.
Contact the Ricky Heath Team Today!
If you notice loud noises coming from your furnace blower motor, don’t hesitate to call Ricky Heath Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling for help. Since 1988, our team of professionals has been proudly serving homeowners in the Macon area and beyond. Contact us today if you need help troubleshooting your furnace blower or you need repairs, maintenance, or a new furnace installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the life expectancy of a furnace blower motor?
A furnace blower typically lasts between 10 and 20 years on average. However, this depends on a few factors, including wear and tear, how well the furnace is maintained, and the quality or manufacturer of the motor.
Should I replace the blower motor or buy a new furnace?
Replacing a blower motor is usually less expensive than buying a new furnace. If your furnace is reaching the end of its service life or if you’re paying for frequent repairs, a furnace upgrade might be the best option.
Can a loud blower motor increase my energy bills?
Yes. A loud blower motor can increase your energy bills if it has to work harder to maintain good airflow and keep your furnace from overheating. A malfunctioning blower motor may also indicate other underlying issues that cause your energy bills to be higher than normal.
