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What’s Causing My Duct Work to Pop When the Furnace Starts or Stops?
Do your ducts make a strange popping noise when you turn your furnace on or off? Unusual noises can cause alarm, but don’t panic. There could be several reasons your ductwork is popping.
What Does it Mean if My Ductwork Makes a Popping Sound?
A popping noise is typically a sign of an under-sized duct design. It may be the result of greater airflow than the ductwork can handle. Popping noises can also be attributed to the following:
1. Misshapen ducts
If your ducts are rectangular versus rounded, they are more likely to make strange noises. Obviously, replacing your entire home ventilation system over a little noise isn’t exactly practical, but other solutions including purchasing duct liners or rubber pads to block the sound.
2. Weak metal
Popping noises are often the result of great pressure on the metal. Strong metal can handle the pressure better than weak metal, which is why metal with a lower gauge rating will often make noise.
3. Furnace problems
If the furnace itself is malfunctioning, the popping noises you hear might be the furnace problem manifesting itself in the ductwork.
What Problems Does an Under-Sized Duct Cause?
Ductwork that is too small or too big can cause a wide range of problems, including the following:
- Excessive noise
- Higher energy consumption
- Lowered lifespan of the system
- Uneven heating & cooling throughout your home
- Damaged compressor in summer
- Overheated unit in the cooler months
- Poor indoor air quality
Since all of your heating and cooling cycles through your ductwork before entering your home, it is extremely important that your ducts are clean and functioning well. Your home’s ventilation system helps protect your home’s indoor air quality, which in turn has a significant impact on your health.
What Should You Do if Your Ductwork Makes a Popping Noise?
If you notice your ductwork making a lot of noise, you can do the following two things.
1. Have a qualified company analyze your home’s ventilation system.
Professionals should examine your ductwork to make sure it has been properly designed, installed, maintained, etc. If they notice any problems, they will make necessary recommendations for remedying the issue.
2. Schedule routine HVAC maintenance.
The most important thing you can do to avoid major system issues is to inspect your system regularly. This involves changing air filters, insulating ductwork, etc. In addition to inspecting the system yourself, you should schedule a professional inspection annually. Not only does this help keep everything in working order, it protects your home’s indoor air quality.
