Why Is My Furnace So Loud All of a Sudden?

A quiet hum from your furnace is normal. But it's worth paying attention when that hum turns into banging, screeching, or rattling. Sudden loud noises aren’t just annoying—they’re your system’s way of saying something’s wrong. Here’s what those sounds could mean, and how furnace services from Controlled Comfort can help.
Common Causes of Loud Furnace Noises
1. Banging or Booming
If you hear a loud bang when the furnace starts, it could be delayed ignition. That means gas is building up before igniting, which isn’t just noisy—it’s dangerous. Ductwork expanding too forcefully from airflow issues can also create a similar sound. Either way, this isn’t something to let slide.
2. Screeching or Squealing
High-pitched noises often mean something mechanical is wearing out, like a worn blower belt or dry motor bearings. These parts work hard and wear down over time. Without fast attention, your system could fail altogether, especially in the middle of a Nebraska winter.
3. Rattling or Vibrating
This could be as minor as a loose access panel or as serious as a cracked heat exchanger. Call a technician if you hear what sounds like metal-on-metal noises or your system shaking more than usual. Ignoring it can put both your comfort and your safety at risk.
4. Clicking or Popping
Repeated clicking might mean a faulty ignition switch or electrical control issue. On the other hand, popping sounds from your ducts usually come from temperature shifts, but when they become louder or more frequent, it's best to get it checked.
5. Humming That Gets Louder
A soft hum is normal, but if it’s growing louder or starts buzzing, it could point to failing electrical components or a strained motor. These issues can lead to bigger problems if not addressed quickly.
Let’s Keep Things Quiet — and Safe
At Controlled Comfort, we take these warning signs seriously. Our team offers prompt, professional furnace repair services without pressure or surprises. We’re here to solve the problem and keep your system running safely.
Want to avoid future surprises? Our furnace maintenance services help prevent breakdowns with regular seasonal tune-ups. And when it’s time for a new system, our full-service furnace installation services make the process transparent, simple, and stress-free.
We proudly serve residential and commercial customers in Omaha, NE, and nearby cities like La Vista, Bellevue, Papillion, Gretna, Bennington, Blair, Fort Calhoun, Fremont, Plattsmouth, Ralston, Valley, and Waterloo.
Contact us today to schedule your visit—and turn the volume down on your furnace for good.
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