What Does a Furnace Whistling Sound Mean?

It’s not uncommon to hear any HVAC systems producing sounds. From AC units to furnaces, you’ll notice a light humming or pinging sound that means your system’s motor is functioning. Still, certain sounds, like whistling, shouldn’t overpower your AC’s noise output.

Below, we’ll explain the infamous furnace whistling sound and how to get rid of it. At Watson Heating & Air, we understand even the slightest concerns can eventually turn into costly repairs.

Therefore, follow our tips for better indoor air quality. Call us for furnace repairs in Richmond, KY.

What Makes the Whistling Sound? 

Just as air escapes a tire or balloon, making a hissing sound, a furnace whistles when there’s an air leak in the system. Unfortunately, many components in your heating unit can release air, making pinpointing the problem difficult.

Search for the strange noise within the air register. You can also call a professional to uncover any of the following:

• A high-powered fan blows excessive forced wind through the system, causing air to seep out of the duct seams.
• Loose or cracked ducts let some controlled air slip through.
• The register cover, which allows you to adjust the airflow, is loose. (In this case, tighten the screws on the register. Then, lower the unusually higher air pressure by slowing the fan circulation.)
• A low-return airflow in the air ducts releases a high-pitched sound when the blower isn’t pulling enough air.

Why Should I Fix the Whistling Noise?

The escaping air may not seem like enough of a nuisance for most residents to call a repair person. However, a furnace whistling sound requires an immediate furnace repair. It spells disaster for your unit and electric bills. 

If high-pressured air leads to your whistling sound, the heightened force behind it weakens the seams. It also slowly deteriorates your duct system’s thin metal walls.

In turn, cracks and holes emerge, letting quality air travel into your walls and ceiling. It’ll also place more pressure on your unit’s blower fan, compressor, and heat exchangers. These components will gradually break down and require costly repairs. 

Losing controlled air within your home only prompts your system to work harder to produce the temperature set on your thermostat. The more air your system produces and the longer it runs, the more you’ll pay in monthly energy bills. Some residents pay $200 or more in added costs while dealing with inconsistent or inadequate heating. 

At Watson Heating & Air, we suggest having a professional repair the unit. Remedying air leaks on your own may lead to negative results.

Without the appropriate equipment to patch holes or the know-how to adjust components, you may only temporarily remedy the situation. You may also harm yourself or damage your unit further.

How Can I Prevent This Problem in the Future? 

If your furnace is whistling, you’re likely trying to prevent your unit from needing yet another repair. Alternatively, you may wish to prevent the whistling in the future. We have the tips below. 

• Duct debris: Blockages in the return vent cause the furnace whistling sound due to air slipping through small openings between the contaminants. Before it gets this bad, ensure dust, dirt, and dander enter your ducts by cleaning the debris from all openings. That includes changing dirty air filters, wiping down vents and dirty burners, and calling for professional duct cleaning. 
  
• Restricted air in the supply ducts: If your system’s closed or blocked supply vents limit airflow in the supply ducts, air squeezes through and causes whistling. This air causes pressure on your vent since they’re holding back the full air force. Alleviate this pressure by checking all household vents to ensure your furniture and other objects aren’t barring proper ventilation. 
  
• Semi-annual professional maintenance: Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your unit is to have a specialist examine it thoroughly for faults. They may uncover things you would otherwise never know of, including dirty capacitors, worn motor bearings, and internal obstructions. Since any of these contribute to whistling, keeping them in top shape bars future noises. 

For #1 Services in Your Area

A furnace whistling sound is an unpleasant and confusing noise that leaves you on edge. At Watson Heating & Air, we understand the aggravation behind HVAC mishaps and the trials of finding reputable furnace maintenance services in Richmond, KY.

For that reason, we make the process simple, making our five-star team available 24/7. So, call us today at (859) 695-3950 for a free consultation!