Why Does a Heating System Click?
In many older oil-powered heating systems, a motor-powered fan is used to expel smoke and byproducts of the oil from the system.
Boilers and furnaces can make a whole slew of sounds and noises. From the regular hum of operation to strange bumps, thuds, clangs, and booms. Often, these are just particular sounds related to the operation of a home’s heating system. Other times, however, the sounds may be different from the noises to which homeowners have grown accustomed.
If new or troublesome sounds come from a home’s electric or gas furnace or boiler, homeowners should contact a professional technician immediately. These new and unfamiliar sounds could indicate a problem; the sooner a licensed technician inspects it, the better. The sound may signify something easily remedied if looked at right away, saving the homeowner from the cost of having to replace their furnace and, quite possibly, saving them from harm.
Different noises can indicate specific problems with a heating system. One of the more common sounds homeowners call about is a clicking in the system, which can result from several causes.
Here are some of the more common sources of clicking in a home’s heating system:
Inducer
In many older oil-powered heating systems, a motor-powered fan is used to expel smoke and byproducts of the oil from the system. If the fan becomes loose, it can make a clicking sound. Likewise, any soot or gunk that builds up can interfere with the process, causing a clicking noise. Due to the purpose of the fan, it’s best to call a professional.
Worn bearings
A worn bearing in the motor will cause a clicking sound. If left unattended, the motor will burn itself out, causing expensive home heating system repairs. Have the motor inspected and the bearings replaced by a professional technician. Replacing the bearings is far less expensive than purchasing and installing a new motor.
Gas valve
If the clicking sound is intermittent and has no discernible pattern, then there is likely a problem with the gas valve. That means the homeowner needs to call the gas provider, as the source is usually remedied by replacing the home’s meter. By law, only the gas company can make this repair.
Pilot light
Specific models of gas furnaces will click when the pilot light isn’t operating as it should. Over time and use, pilot assemblies can become worn, bent, or loose so that the pilot simply doesn’t light. The clicking sound can indicate a faulty pilot, gas issues, or something amiss with the wiring.
Furnace diagnostics and repairs
Ultimately, any unusual sound coming from a furnace is reason enough to have the heating system inspected by a licensed HVAC technician.
Evenflow Home and Commercial Services of San Antonio offers impeccable house cleaning services, professional plumbing, electrician services, HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair. Our technicians offer 24-hour emergency electrical and HVAC service for San Antonio, Schertz, Converse, Floresville, Elmendorf, and more. Call us at (210)941-3503.
