Bump! Bang! Buzz … “Well, that can’t be good,” you think. Slowly you approach your heating unit to listen closely, hoping it’s nothing too serious. Here we will walk you through five strange sounds your HVAC unit could make this winter, what they might mean and when to call a licensed HVAC professional.
What does it mean if my HVAC hisses?
If your HVAC makes a hissing sound, that can be normal if the heat pump’s outside unit is in defrost mode. But, if the hissing seems to be coming from the ductwork inside your home, then it’s most likely a leak that is letting air escape. That leaking air can lead to higher energy bills as the unit keeps running longer than is typical to compensate for the escaping warm air. A unit that works harder will need repairs more often and more frequent maintenance. Plus, air won’t be traveling easily through your home, leaving some rooms much cooler than others. You will need a pro to find, inspect and seal the leaks in tough-to-reach spaces.
What does it mean if my HVAC makes a popping sound?
If your HVAC system uses sheet metal ductwork, a popping noise is normal when the system first turns on. It is simply the metal expanding as the warm air flows through. Other times a popping sound can be caused when the fan turns on. The duct will pop inward from the negative pressure of the fan and then pop back out when the fan shuts off and releases the pressure. This can be caused by a clogged filter or closed vents, which you can remedy on your own. Other causes, such as an undersized duct or one constructed of thin, flimsy metal should be looked at by an HVAC service provider who can identify the cause.
What does it mean if my HVAC squeaks or squeals?
Weak or dirty bearings in the blower motor can be responsible for the noises, or it could be bearings that need to be lubricated. Squeaks and squeals could also be caused by a motor that needs lubrication or that is misaligned, but the situation can be as serious as a fan motor that is failing and needs to be replaced. Belts that are old, loose, or need lubrication are another possible culprit. With any squeak or squeal, turn off the unit and call a professional HVAC technician before any damage is done or before existing damage becomes more severe.
What does it mean if my HVAC thumps, bumps or bangs?
If your HVAC unit makes any of these strange sounds, turn off your system and call in the pros. It’s especially concerning if you hear metal on metal or a scraping sound. Something may be loose, broken or disconnected. The issue could be with the blower assembly, motor, fan blades or another part that a technician will need to diagnose.
What does it mean if my HVAC makes a buzzing sound?
If what you’re hearing sounds more like a hum than a buzz, it’s likely just the system running. Some HVAC systems are louder than others, which is no big deal unless the sound suddenly becomes louder, signaling a problem. If you’re hearing a buzz from your HVAC, that’s a reason to call an HVAC professional. There are many possible issues, so they will need to listen to the noise on site and visually inspect the unit. The cause may be a mounted transformer box that has become loose, it could be a problem with the capacitor or fan, or an unbalanced motor or blower wheel, to name a few possible origins. Please don’t wait to give us a call.
Contact Us to Learn More
Routine HVAC maintenance can help you prevent these problems from the get-go, so it’s wise to have two seasonal inspections and tune-ups each year. If you hear any strange sounds from your HVAC system this winter or if you have any questions at all, contact Fitch Services at 434-296-9980.
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See All ReviewsJulie D. (Charlottesville, VA)I can’t say enough good things!! We had an emergency, no AC during the 113+ heat wave on a Friday holiday afternoon (worst timing!!!). I called multiple companies and only Fitch called me back.
Larry was fantastic!! He kept me informed as to when he anticipated getting to us, and called when on his way, and showed up when he said he would.
He was, again, fantastic! Explained the issue and promptly fixed it. Our house was literally 98 degrees. Everything is running smoothly!
And, for an emergency call late on a Friday afternoon, the cost was incredibly reasonable.
I highly HIGHLY recommend their services. We now have them on speed dial and will absolutely be using them again for our needs, even for other services they offer we have yet to use.
Again, thank you Larry & Fitch Services from us and our pups - for being there when we needed you most and delivering exceptional customer service. 5 stars for sure!
Barbara M. (Charlottesville, VA)I am proud to say I have been a client of Fitch Services since they began. My family has always received courteous and timely service for plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and electrical issues. They have installed and maintain a whole house generator. That was a fantastic decision. I use their annual maintenance plans for all of my systems. I personally recommend Fitch Services.
John K. (Charlottesville, VA)I knew of Fitch Services and their technicians via my place of employment. The technician's honest and forthright approach to their work was very much appreciated... They were initially contacted to come to our residence to address a clogged kitchen sink drain line. It was suggested to us we replace the drain line instead of snaking it. When the old drain line was cut out and shown to me, it was amazing anything had gotten through that line! Glad we chose to replace it... We also inquired about replacing/updating all the galvanized supply lines in our home. The scope of the work needed and how it would be done was discussed to make sure we understood... We appreciated the honest assessment of how the project might or would go. While the technicians were on our project, they kept us updated with daily conversations towards the end of their working day. The finished project has been great! We were excited to finally have full flow of the hot water! Fitch is now our 'go to' plumber.
Tom P. (Charlottesville, VA)I've used Fitch for a few years now for both electrical and plumbing work. They are professional and do a great job on things both big and small. Twice we have had pretty huge jobs and they have come in under budget. Plus, the service technicians are friendly and work hard and the office staff communicates very well. Definitely recommend!
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