Something about a high-pitched noise keeps us on edge. This is why the majority of the alarm sounds we use are high-pitched noises, from fire alarms to emergency alarms to appliance alarms. However, a high-pitched noise coming from your furnace is not a normal occurrence. However, it is likely a warning about a problem with the unit. If this is a current problem with your system, here’s a closer look at what causes it.

Is Your Furnace Making A High-Pitched Noise?

When operational, the furnace relies on good airflow to distribute heat throughout the home. Modern furnace models are significantly much more quiet compared to older models, thanks to new HVAC technology. However, it is virtually impossible for even the most high-end furnace systems not to generate any noise since it has to use airflow for heat distribution. Hearing a few noises here and there is generally considered normal. A high-pitched whistling noise coming from the furnace is not always a good sign.

Reasons For A Whistling Furnace

A whistling noise generated by the furnace usually sounds like a high-pitched squeal. This is a distinct noise from other noises that are considered part of normal operation. This is usually caused by an issue involving the blower and air escaping out of a narrow gap or crack.

Furnace Bearings

The blower is powered by an electric motor, which is built with bearings. Over time, these bearings become worn out due to regular use or sometimes, overheating. When the issue is caused by overheating, this is usually due to a damaged capacitor or just simply dust and dirt buildup.

A high-pitched whistling noise may also be due to low airflow. This is usually caused by a blower that cannot efficiently pull in a sufficient amount of air for heating. If this is the case, the problem may be due to any of the following:

Dirty Air Filter

The HVAC air filter plays a key role in keeping the heating system efficient and functioning optimally. Because it traps tiny particulates such as dust, dirt, human and pet dander, pollen, and spores, it becomes clogged after a while. Since air passes through the filter before it is released through the vents, blockage at the filter makes it difficult to push through. The sound of air passing through a clogged air filter usually sounds like a high-pitched noise.

To fix: Simply clean or replace the filter. This will also increase the efficiency of your heating system.

Closed or Blocked HVAC Air Vents

If the air vents are closed or blocked and the furnace is running, the system has no choice but to push the air through with more effort. Because the egress points – i.e., the vents – are blocked or closed, the air coming through will produce a high-pitched whistling noise.

To fix: Check if the vents are closed and simply open them. If they are blocked, removing the obstacle will ensure that airflow is sufficient.

Dirty or Damaged Furnace Ducts

In some cases, the whistling noise that the furnace seems to produce may actually be coming from the HVAC ductwork. This is often caused by air leaks. Air in the ducts is pressurized and moves quickly. If the duct is damaged, there are likely cracks in the network. When air passes through these cracks, it produces a high-pitched noise.

If the ducts are dirty, some spaces may be narrowed. When air passes through these areas, the obstruction may also produce an annoying (and sometimes alarming) high-pitched noise.

To fix: If the problem involves the ductwork, it is better to have it inspected by a licensed HVAC technician. Do not try to fix the issue yourself. A trained technician will be able to identify the issue and fix it according to industry safety standards. If the problem is dirty ductwork, your technician will simply clean the network to ensure better airflow.

The Importance of Having a Professional HVAC Contractor Fix Your Heater

There are problems with your heater that can easily be remedied by changing your filter or opening your vents, for example. However, some issues are too serious or complicated to be fixed as a do-it-yourself project. For example, a high-pitched noise coming from your furnace could require a furnace part replacement or a professional cleanup. Keep in mind that heaters are complex machines that use combustible fuel and are built with electronics you could easily damage if you do not know what you are doing. Hiring a professional HVAC contractor will ensure that:

• Your Furnace Operates Safely: Safety is the foremost reason why you should always turn to a trained and experienced HVAC technician for jobs that require repairs and replacements on your HVAC system. If you only have an idea about the problem and the type of solution that can fix it, this is likely not enough. Being unsure why your furnace is producing a whistling noise means you do not know the cause and therefore will not know what to do. It is likely you also do not have the proper tools to do the job correctly.
• Your Home Is Comfortable: When the problem is a whistling noise, it likely has something to do with airflow. Remember that your HVAC system is generating air at high pressure and this air is being pushed through the system at high speed. This is not the kind of situation you should handle on your own without proper training. It is better to leave it to the professionals.
• You Save Money: Any air leaks present in your home is money being wasted. Heated or cooled air is air you pay for. The sooner the issue is fixed by a professional HVAC technician, the better it will be for your finances. Plus, you also avoid the possibility of damaging the system yourself, which could potentially cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars to repair.

What Can I Do To Keep My Furnace From Whistling?

There are things you can do to prevent issues that could cause whistling in your furnace. Doing these steps now will help you avoid inconvenience, safety issues, and expenses.

• Schedule Annual Furnace Tune-Ups: It is vital that you schedule furnace tune-ups on an annual basis. A furnace tune-up will help keep the system clean, prevent avoidable furnace repairs, keep your system running efficiently, improve air quality, and improve home comfort.
• Replace The HVAC Filters & Keep The Ducts Clean: Dirt and other debris can and will cause a blockage at the return vents. By keeping these vents clean and unblocked, you can keep the air flowing sufficiently. Clean ducts also ensure that your system is running efficiently. Also, be sure to replace the filters when they are dirty. Inspect them monthly and replace them when necessary. Many avoidable furnace issues are caused by inadequate airflow and blocked HVAC air filters.
• Check For Blocked HVAC Air Vents: Check every vent you have in the house to see if they are blocked by furniture, plants, beds, or curtains. If there are vents that are closed, open them to allow air to pass through. Blocked air vents cause uneven temperatures in the home and they also force the furnace system to work harder just to generate enough heat to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors. Remember that a system that works harder unnecessarily will consume more power than it should, which means you pay more for utilities.
• Keep Doors Open: If there are doors that are closed inside the home, try keeping them open. This will allow air to flow through freely. Not only will this prevent problems with airflow but it will also allow for better ventilation, so you enjoy fresh air throughout the day.

Conclusion

Your furnace system will produce strange noises from time to time. Some types of noises, such as the sound of airflow, are usually harmless but some, such as high-pitched noises, are likely caused by something else. Make sure to maintain your furnace system by keeping it and its immediate environment clean and call your trusted HVAC contractor for annual preventative maintenance.