During the winter season, we’d all rather be listening for sleigh bells in the snow instead of strange sounds coming from the furnace. While there’s no such thing as a furnace that is completely silent, a clicking sound is certainly something to pay attention to.

There are perfectly normal clicking noises that are common among heat pumps that are a part of the system as it begins a cycle or shuts itself down. This clicking, which comes from components as they engage and disengage, isn’t typically a problem but there are situations where it can be a cause for concern.

Why Won’t My Furnace Stop Clicking?

A constant or irregular clicking sound can have several different causes other than normal furnace noises. The causes can include:

• Broken/Loose Part – A clicking noise may be the result of a panel somewhere being loose or broken.
• Ignition System – If the ignition system is failing, there may be an issue somewhere resulting in a consistent clicking noise.
• Dirty/Clogged Fan – Fans run a lot, and over time come across dirt and debris that can build up. This dirt can interfere with the fan’s ability to work and cause a clicking sound.
• Motor bearings – A motor bearing is a small but important piece that allows fan blades to spin or grant mobility to some other component. When it fails (or begins to fail), it can certainly cause a lot of noise.
• Heat exchange – This is a serious issue that may mean there’s a gas leak into your home. If – along with clicking sounds – you notice any strange smells, soot build-up, water around the furnace, the furnace flame changing appearance from blue to orange and yellow, or a lack of heat… then this may be the cause of the issue.
• Ducts – If you hear the clicking in parts of the house away from the furnace, it may be because a duct has become loose or cracked.

How Do I Stop My Furnace from Clicking?

The most important thing you can do is provide regular maintenance to your system. Make sure any moving parts are well-lubricated and tighten down anything moving that shouldn’t. Replacing any worn-out bearings can also help alleviate noises.

Is a Clicking Furnace Dangerous?

It certainly can be! If you don’t feel confident in your own skills to address the problem, then you should call a technician to check any issue you find concerning. It could be anything as simple as something needing tightening or it could be a sign of a much bigger issue – like a gas leak.

What to Do If Your Furnace Isn’t Turning On?

Before you call a technician there are a few options you can safely check yourself. The obvious first choices are to make sure the thermostat is turned on, that your gas is turned on, and – you guessed it – make sure the furnace’s power switch is set to “on.”

Your furnace may be shutting down because of a clogged air filter. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dust, hair, and all manner of household debris. If air is coming out of the vents and it isn’t hot, it may mean that your pilot light may also be out.

Call Tragar Home Services for Your Long Island Heating Needs

As a family-owned company, Tragar Home Services has been providing 5-star service to Long Island homeowners for decades. Furnace problem in the middle of the night? We are available 24/7 and have the fastest emergency response time at just two hours. Contact us today, and we’ll help ensure your home stays cozy and warm this winter.