A furnace is an essential appliance in every home, particularly during the winter season. It provides the necessary warmth to keep your family comfortable during the cold months. However, if your furnace vibrates when starting, it could indicate a problem that needs immediate attention.
This article will explore the reasons why your furnace is vibrating when starting and what you can do to fix it.
1. Loose Parts
Over time, the constant heating and cooling of the furnace can cause screws, bolts, and other components to loosen. This vibration can be noisy and cause damage to the furnace if it is not addressed promptly.
If you suspect that loose parts are the cause of your furnace’s vibrations, it is essential to turn off the furnace and call a professional technician to repair it.
2. Blower Wheel Issues
The blower wheel is part of the furnace that moves the air through the system and can also be a source of vibration. If the blower wheel is unbalanced or has become dirty, it can cause the furnace to vibrate when starting.
Regular furnace maintenance, including cleaning, can prevent this from happening. If the blower wheel is damaged, it may need to be replaced to stop the vibrations.
3. Fan Motor Problems
The fan motor is responsible for blowing the air through the furnace system. If it malfunctions, it can cause vibrations when the furnace starts. A faulty fan motor may produce a humming noise, and you may notice that the furnace takes longer to heat the house.
If you suspect that the fan motor is the cause of the vibrations, it is essential to have it inspected and repaired by a professional technician.
4. Dirty Air Filter
When the air filter is clogged with dust and debris, it restricts the airflow, causing the furnace to work harder than it should. This can lead to vibrations when the furnace starts. Regularly changing the air filter can prevent this from happening, and it is recommended to change it every three months.
5. Ductwork Problems
If there is a blockage or damage to the ductwork, it can cause the air to be trapped, leading to vibrations when the furnace starts. Ductwork issues can also cause uneven heating of the house, resulting in higher energy bills. It is essential to have your ductwork inspected regularly to prevent any issues that may cause furnace vibrations.
6. Expansion and Contraction of Ductwork
When the furnace starts, the ductwork heats up and expands, causing it to vibrate. As the furnace cools down, the ductwork contracts and the vibrations stop. This can be prevented by insulating the ductwork, which helps to reduce the expansion and contraction that causes vibrations.
7. Ignition Problems
If there are issues with the ignition system, it can cause vibrations when the furnace starts. This could be due to a faulty ignition switch or a dirty pilot light. Regular furnace maintenance, including cleaning and inspection of the ignition system, can prevent this from happening.
If you suspect that the ignition system is the cause of the vibrations, it is essential to call a professional technician to repair it.
Conclusion
Furnace vibrations can be a nuisance and an indication of a more significant problem that needs immediate attention. Loose parts, blower wheel issues, fan motor problems, dirty air filters, ductwork problems, expansion and contraction of ductwork, and ignition problems are some of the reasons why your furnace may vibrate when starting.
Regular maintenance of the furnace can prevent these issues from happening. If you suspect that any of these issues cause your furnace’s vibrations, it is essential to call a professional technician to inspect and repair it. A well-maintained furnace not only provides comfort but also saves you money on energy bills.
If you are in need of furnace maintenance in Oshawa, the Climate Experts Service Team is here to help. Our team of licensed technicians is available 24/7 to provide fast, reliable, and affordable furnace repair services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
