Why Is My Furnace Making a Knocking Noise While Running?
Inland Empire Comfort
January 21, 2023
When your furnace functions properly, it should run fairly quietly. It’s normal to hear some noise, so if your furnace is making knocking noises while running, don’t panic. However, if the noises become louder and more frequent than usual, it might be time to call Riverside's heater repair experts at Inland Empire Comfort Air Conditioning and Heating. Below, we’ve explored some of the most common reasons for knocking noises in your furnace.
Dirty Blower Wheel
Regular maintenance always benefits your furnace, and this definitely applies in the case of the blower wheel in your furnace. If the blower wheel becomes unbalanced, you may hear knocking sounds when the furnace runs. Calling in a professional to clean and rebalance the blower wheel not only saves you from more costly repairs, but in a worst case scenario, an unbalanced blower wheel may explode.
Keeping your furnace’s blower wheel clean is easy with regular visits from experienced HVAC furnace technicians for maintenance. Additionally, the easiest way to keep your blower wheel clean is by frequently changing your furnace filter.
Filters collect dust, hair, and other debris from the air, and gunk can begin to build up on the blower wheel. Replacing your furnace filter every three months helps avoid this, while pet owners should replace their filters about once a month.
Ducts Hitting the Walls
Because the ducts in your heating system circulate both warm and cold air, they undergo expansion and contraction. As the metal parts of the ducts warm up, they move around a bit and cause banging noises. In most cases, these noises are normal. However, if you notice that the banging continues or other heating issues arise (like a lack of warm air coming from the vents), it may be time to call an expert furnace and duct servicing company to inspect your heating system.
While noisy return ducts generally aren’t a cause for concern, they may indicate poor installation. Your repair technicians can inspect your heating system, checking the ducts and making any adjustments necessary to eliminate the noise.
Broken or Cracked Fan Belt
If your fan belt cracks or breaks, it strikes the metal parts of your furnace as it rotates, causing knocking and banging noises. As with any type of malfunctioning part, quick action to repair or replace the broken piece helps to keep a minor issue from becoming more serious and more expensive.
As a homeowner, you can identify a broken or cracked belt in a couple of ways. First, listen carefully to the furnace. The knocking sound resulting from a broken fan belt has a distinctive, almost rhythmic pattern. If the banging occurs at regular intervals, the fan belt may be the culprit.
You may also want to remove the front panel of your furnace and carefully see if you detect a crack or break in the belt. In all cases, it’s best to call in a professional HVAC technician to repair the problem, so that you know it’s done safely and correctly.
Call Inland Empire Comfort Air Conditioning and Heating for Expert Furnace Repair
When you call Inland Empire Comfort Air Conditioning and Heating, our experienced furnace technicians come out to your home and inspect your furnace, ductwork, and connections. We diagnose the problem and let you know why your furnace is making a knocking noise while running.
Because we’re Riverside’s heater repair experts, we then answer your questions and offer advice for next steps. Once you’ve decided on a course of action, we perform the necessary repairs and get your heater up and running again. We offer 24/7 service, so you know we’ll be there to handle any furnace emergency.
Riverside’s Choice for Superior Heating and Air Conditioning Services
At Inland Empire Comfort Air Conditioning and Heating, we’re proud to serve the residents of Riverside and the surrounding areas. Our commitment to quality means that our professional technicians know all the ins and outs of repairing, maintaining, and replacing furnaces.
We care about our community and make it our goal to provide every customer with personal, customized service. Whether your furnace is making a knocking noise while running or you need to repair a cracked furnace heat exchanger, the experts at Inland Empire Comfort Air Conditioning and Heating have you covered.

Let us ensure that your heating system functions at its peak all season long. Call Inland Empire Comfort Air Conditioning and Heating in Riverside, CA today at
(951) 336-1892 to schedule an appointment.
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To improve your indoor air quality before spring in Riverside, CA, start by regularly changing your air filters and increasing ventilation. Open windows and use exhaust fans to circulate fresh air throughout your home. Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to effectively trap allergens and pollutants. Keep humidity levels in check by using a hygrometer and a dehumidifier if necessary. Finally, schedule professional HVAC maintenance to ensure your system runs efficiently and optimally. For even more tips on achieving a healthier home, be sure to reach out for expert advice. Regularly Change Your Air Filters Although it might seem like a small task, regularly changing your air filters can greatly impact your indoor air quality. When you neglect this simple chore, dust, allergens, and pollutants accumulate, making it harder for your HVAC system to function efficiently. It's recommended to check your filters at least once a month, especially during peak usage seasons. If they're dirty, replace them immediately to keep your air clean and fresh. Using high-quality filters can also help trap more particles, further improving your home's air quality. Remember, a clean filter means better airflow, lower energy bills, and a longer lifespan for your HVAC system. Additionally, regular maintenance services can enhance the efficiency of your air quality management efforts. Consider setting reminders on your phone or calendar to ensure you stay on top of this crucial task. By making this small commitment, you're investing in a healthier living environment for you and your family, enhancing comfort and well-being at home with the help of Inland Empire Comfort. Increase Ventilation in Your Home Open Windows : When the weather permits, open your windows to let fresh air circulate. Use Exhaust Fans : Turn on kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans to remove excess moisture and odors. Install Air Vents : Ensure your home has adequate air vents, especially in enclosed spaces. Consider a Ventilation System : For those serious about air quality, exploring options from Inland Empire Comfort for a whole-home ventilation system can be beneficial. Regular maintenance checks, including furnace filter replacement , can also enhance indoor air quality by ensuring efficient operation. Use Air Purifiers to Reduce Pollutants Using air purifiers can greatly improve your home's air quality by removing harmful pollutants and allergens. These devices work by filtering out dust, pet dander, pollen, and even smoke particles, creating a healthier living environment for you and your family. When selecting an air purifier, look for models with HEPA filters, as they capture at least 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger. Position your air purifier in high-traffic areas or rooms where you spend the most time, such as the living room or bedroom. Make sure to check the filter regularly and replace it as needed to maintain peak performance. Additionally, consider running your air purifier continuously, especially during allergy season or when air quality is poor. With consistent use, you'll notice a reduction in allergens, leading to improved comfort and well-being in your home. For recommendations and quality products, Inland Empire Comfort offers reliable solutions to enhance your indoor air quality, including expert advice on air conditioning servicing to ensure your system is functioning optimally. Keep Humidity Levels in Check Use a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity levels, aiming for 30-50%. Invest in a dehumidifier if your home feels damp, especially in basements or bathrooms. Seal leaks and gaps in windows and doors to prevent outside moisture from entering. Ventilate your home by opening windows on dry days or using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Additionally, maintaining proper humidity levels can help prevent issues like refrigerant leaks that lead to cooling difficulties. Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance Maintaining balanced humidity levels in your home is just one aspect of ensuring a comfortable environment. To truly enhance your indoor air quality, scheduling professional HVAC maintenance is essential. Regular tune-ups help ensure your heating and cooling systems operate efficiently, reducing the circulation of dust and allergens. When you work with a trusted HVAC provider, their experienced technicians will thoroughly inspect and clean your system. This proactive approach not only extends the lifespan of your equipment but also helps identify potential issues before they lead to costly repairs. Furthermore, a well-maintained system can improve airflow, contributing to overall comfort. Don't wait for problems to arise—schedule your HVAC maintenance today to enjoy cleaner air and a more comfortable home. Remember, your indoor air quality directly impacts your health and well-being, so investing in professional care is always a wise choice.
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By changing your filters every 1 to 3 months, you'll ensure that your HVAC system runs efficiently and delivers clean air throughout your home. You mightn't realize how much dust, pollen, and allergens filter into your space. A fresh filter traps these particles, improving the air you breathe and enhancing your overall comfort. Plus, it can reduce energy consumption, saving you money on your utility bills. If you have pets or suffer from allergies, consider checking your filters even more frequently. Regular maintenance services, including air filter replacement , are essential for optimal indoor air quality. Don't let neglect compromise your indoor air quality—make filter replacement a part of your regular home maintenance routine. Your lungs will thank you! For expert assistance and more information, you can rely on Inland Empire Comfort. 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Trust Inland Empire Comfort for your annual HVAC inspections and ensure your system runs at its best. Clean and Clear Air Ducts How often do you think about the cleanliness of your air ducts? If you're like most homeowners, it's probably not often enough. Dirty air ducts can circulate dust, allergens, and other pollutants throughout your home, compromising your indoor air quality. To ensure cleaner air, consider scheduling regular duct cleaning with Inland Empire Comfort. This not only removes accumulated debris but also improves your HVAC system's efficiency. Additionally, expert technicians can ensure optimal placement for efficient air-flow during any necessary installations or maintenance. You can also take proactive steps by regularly changing your air filters. Depending on your usage and the type of filter, changing it every 1-3 months can significantly enhance airflow and reduce dust buildup in your ducts. Additionally, inspect your ducts for any visible mold or rodent infestations. If you spot any issues, it's time to call in the experts at Inland Empire Comfort. Monitor Humidity Levels Maintaining the right humidity levels in your home is crucial for both comfort and health, especially during extreme weather conditions. High humidity can lead to mold growth, while low humidity can cause dry skin and respiratory issues. To keep your indoor environment balanced, consider these tips from Inland Empire Comfort: Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels regularly. Adjust your HVAC settings to manage moisture effectively. Run a dehumidifier during humid months to reduce excess moisture. Ensure proper ventilation in areas like kitchens and bathrooms to prevent humidity buildup. Additionally, regular AC maintenance can help ensure that your system operates efficiently, contributing to better humidity control. With these strategies, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living space. Invest in Air Purification Systems As you prioritize your home's comfort and health, investing in air purification systems can significantly enhance your indoor air quality. These systems actively eliminate airborne pollutants, allergens, and harmful particles, ensuring you breathe cleaner air every day. Integrating an air purifier into your HVAC setup reduces the risk of respiratory issues and allergies. Look for systems equipped with HEPA filters, capable of capturing 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Consider models that incorporate UV light technology to eradicate bacteria and viruses, further improving your home's air quality. When selecting an air purification system, it's beneficial to consult with experts who can recommend the best options tailored to your needs and budget. 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