If you have owned your heating oil furnace for a while, you probably know the normal purrs and hums that it makes when it’s operating the way it ought to. But sometimes you will get an unexpected noise – a bang here, a whistle there – that indicates a problem that needs professional heating repair.

Here are three common problems that could lead to your furnace making strange noises this heating season.

• Dirt build-up – If too much dust and debris gets inside your furnace (often because of problems with your air filter), it can damage moving parts and make the operation of your furnace noisier overall. A dirty gas burner, for example, will make a low rumbling noise, while under-lubricated ball bearings will create a high-pitched squeal. Try replacing a dirty air filter and see if the problem goes away; if not, call a professional for heating service.
• Failing motors – An overworked or improperly maintained furnace motor can be prone to burnout, and the noises your equipment makes in this stage of disrepair are often not subtle; a noticeable humming or whirring noise, for example, could indicate a motor that is on the brink of failing. If you hear these types of sounds, call for service right away to avoid a no heat emergency.
• Heating oil pump problems – Unless there is an internal problem with the heating oil pump, these units are pretty quiet. But sometimes a pump may whine, rattle, buzz, or make other odd noises – and each noise indicates a different condition within your furnace. An experienced heating technician will recognize these sounds, know what they mean, and know how best to address the problem they represent.

The bottom line: If it sounds bad, get it checked out by a pro

Furnaces are complicated machines, and tampering with them without proper training can be dangerous: a significant electric shock or exposure to a potentially dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide in your Long Island home are just two potential consequences of improper maintenance. The bottom line: when it comes to repairing a furnace, DON’T DYI – contact the pros at Burt’s Reliable.

For expert heating system repairs in our North Fork or East End, LI service area, trust the pros at Burt’s Reliable. Contact us today to schedule your heating service call!