My Furnace Sounds Like a Dryer. Do I Need HVAC Repair in Brentwood, CA?

February 28, 2023

Your HVAC system normally generates noises as it is operating. These should be the familiar sounds of air blowing and motors running. Any sounds that are out of the ordinary signal it’s time to call for HVAC repair in Brentwood, CA. A good example is when your furnace sounds like a dryer.

Can an HVAC Unit Sound Like a Washing Machine?

It’s normal for an HVAC system to produce a whirring sound, similar to a washing machine. There is no cause for concern. You can leave the unit alone and let it provide the warm air you need.

But to be on the safe side, call a technician if you hear:

• Loud Thumping or Vibrating: If the system sounds like an out-of-balance washing machine, there could be a problem with the blower wheel or motor. These components can become off-balanced or misaligned. The issue should be fixed because it can lead to other problems. If it’s serviced quickly, your furnace will not likely need to be replaced.
  
  A faulty capacitor or indoor fan can cause a thumping sound as well. If so, then the system may not blow hot air either. You’ll need a technician with the right experience to fix a capacitor, as it is what delivers electricity to the furnace. Working with this part can be extremely dangerous.

• Metallic Scraping Sounds: These unmistakable and extremely irritating noises mean metal components are making contact with one another. Such sounds can mean the blower is misaligned and touching the housing. It will only get looser and start to make contact with other pieces, increasing friction and wear and eventually causing more damage.
  
  If you hear scraping sounds, shut down your furnace. Permanent damage to your HVAC unit can occur, not only to internal parts but to the structural housing itself. A technician can address the problem before it becomes necessary to replace your furnace.

• Rumbling: If a gas or oil-fired furnace makes a loud rumbling sound, there’s a serious combustion problem, so you should immediately call for service. It’s likely the burner is malfunctioning. Don’t try to troubleshoot the issue yourself. Let a technician check the system so there are no safety concerns; they can repair any problem so your furnace will operate without putting your household in danger.

• Thwapping: This is a common noise that can indicate something is stuck in the fan blades inside the blower. The sound tends to come and go. Usually, it won’t interfere with how your furnace operates. However, it can increase wear and tear on the unit, so it’s best to have the obstruction removed sooner rather than later.

• Rattling: Clanking and banging sounds are often caused by a loose or broken component. These noises require immediate attention especially if they get louder when the blower turns on. Damaged or disconnected parts can cause major damage. Turn the system off and call for help.

Other Sounds to Watch Out For

It’s one concern if your furnace sounds like a dryer. But other noises can signal trouble. A loud humming can mean the transformer is going bad, while whistling can mean there’s a refrigerant leak or high pressure in the system. An air leak in the ductwork is also possible. If the furnace clicks when it is running, the heat exchanger may be cracked. Loud bangs and booms can mean the unit has dirty burners (which can delay ignition) or a sheet metal duct is reacting to changes in pressure.

Call Service Champions for HVAC Repair in Brentwood, CA

If your furnace sounds like a dryer or makes other unusual noises, contact us to troubleshoot and repair your furnace right away. Service Champions is a premier home services company. We serve customers in Brentwood and throughout Contra Costa County as well as Alameda, Santa Clara, and Sacramento Counties in Northern California. Our team uses state-of-the-art technology, tools, and techniques to fix any issue and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all work. Use our online scheduler or call 833-600-0991 to request HVAC repairs.