If you have noticed clicking sounds coming from your furnace, it may be a cause for concern. While a certain amount of noise is normal, persistent clicking sounds could indicate a bigger issue with your system. These noises can serve as a warning sign of potential problems and should not be ignored.
Is a Clicking Furnace Dangerous?
The clicking you hear as part of the normal ignition process is normal, but if it is continuous or otherwise unusual, then it could be a signal of greater possible dangers. A persistent clicking sound can be an indication of an issue with a faulty flame sensor or a problem between the ignition and the gas. If you smell gas, turn the unit off immediately and contact a professional service technician.
How Do I Stop My Furnace from Clicking?
In addition to scheduling annual maintenance for your HVAC system, there are steps you can take to help with the health and longevity of your unit.
- Replacing your filters: Regular filter replacement will keep a dirty filter from putting extra strain on the furnace. Maintaining proper airflow is important to the efficiency of the furnace.
- Checking ducts and vents: Be sure to check your ducts and vents regularly for any signs of damage, obstructions, or loose connections. Securing these things can quiet down your system by removing unnecessary clicking sounds.
- Cleaning the surrounding area: Be sure you’re not cluttering the area around your furnace. Keeping the area around your unit clean can help maintain airflow and prevent debris from entering the system.
Why Won’t My Furnace Stop Clicking?
A persistent clicking sound can be a sign of a faulty ignitor. If the ignitor fails, then the gas valve stays closed, and the burners won’t be lit. Your furnace will keep trying its first step, trying to start the ignitor, resulting in a clicking sound over and over.
What to Do If Your Furnace Isn’t Turning On?
Your first move, though it will sound obvious, is to make sure your thermostat is actually turned on. Silly as it sounds, often it’s off or set at a temperature that won’t require the furnace to turn on.
After you’ve confirmed the thermostat is on, make sure the gas is turned on. This will be slightly more involved than making sure a switch is flipped or that a console is on, but near the unit should be the valve for the gas. Its appearance will vary by design. It may have been closed by accident, or some previous maintenance required it to be shut off. If it still isn’t on, check your other gas appliances. If those appliances don’t turn on, you may not have gas going to your home. This might be the result of a gas leak, blockage, or simply a crew somewhere nearby working on the gas line. Check with your utility company to see if they’re aware of any disruptions of service that would explain the issue.
The problem may be as simple as a switch that needs to be flipped or a duct that needs cleaning, but once you’ve exhausted the limits to which you’re comfortable doing it yourself, be sure to contact a professional technician.
Call Express C.O.D for Your Home Heating Oil Needs
Express C.O.D has been providing reliable, efficient, and friendly HVAC service to Nassau and Suffolk homeowners since 1956. For the best heating oil prices and customer service, contact us online or give us a call at (516) 206-3805.
