Check Out Your HVAC System Regularly For Sings of Potential Problems
You can expect some noise from heating and air conditioning vents, but it can prove to be very annoying when you hear popping and banging or high-pitched tuning fork type sounds. When that occurs it could be a sign that something is amiss with your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
The Return Or Supply Air Flow
One reason for the irritating sounds emanating from the vents could be a problem with the return or supply air flow. An air filter that is clogged, dirty blower wheels, closed supply vents or duct dampers can result in the HVAC system having to work much harder, thereby producing much more noise than it has to. Ignoring these causes can also result in the possibility of damaging your heater or air conditioning system. Other causes of excess noise may be debris or other small items that have fallen into the ducts. That particular problem can be solved by having the ducts cleaned. Otherwise, it may be a case of having to call in a skilled HVAC technician to fix the problem that is causing the excess noise.
Temperature Fluctuations
Excess noise can be caused by temperature fluctuations, such as when the air conditioning starts up in hot weather, and when the heating fires up when it is cold. There are several ways to deal with this problem. One is to encase the ducts in fiberglass insulation. Another is to install acoustic liners, or place rubber padding capable of providing a barrier between metal ductwork, which can expand, and the wooden framing.
The fact that the metal ductwork expands when heated can cause problems, including knocking sounds, if it has not been installed properly. Because the metal expands and the wood framing does not, the installer should always check there is plenty of room for the expanded ductwork within the frame. While the space may have been quite adequate when the property was first built, this can change over the years. So, if your home is old, it is well worth having this factor checked out if your HVAC has become very noisy.
Duct Dampers
Another reason for those annoying knocking or banging sounds could be that too many duct dampers are shut. These can be checked by opening each damper individually and adjusting its internal actuator. Doing this however incorrectly can create other problems within the system.
Regular Maintenance
Many of the problems which lead to excess and annoying noise from your HVAC system can be fixed or prevented with regular maintenance. That is why an annual service by a certified HVAC technician is always a good idea. Regular servicing will also lead to more energy efficiency, which will save on your power bills.
It should be remembered that some HVAC systems, particularly the cheaper ones, can be quite noisy even they are working properly. Regular servicing, however, can ensure that the sounds emitting from the system do not become a source of irritation.
Contact Horizon Services
While all HVAC equipment should be checked by a professional once a year, and an HVAC professional should always be called in to deal with major issues or repairs, you can extend the life of your HVAC system by taking just a few minutes each month to perform a few simple inspection and cleaning duties.
And, if you are ready to install or replace a heater or air conditioner our friendly and experienced team of Comfort Specialists know heating and air conditioning systems inside and out. They’ll take the time to study your home, understand your heating and cooling requirements, show you all of your options and assist you with finding the quality home comfort system that best meets your family’s needs and budget.