How to Eliminate Noisy Ducts in a Hot Air Furnace
- 1). Turn down the volume on all television sets and radios in the home to see whether you can determine where the objectionable sounds are coming from. Be prepared to cut through drywall if necessary to find the source of the noise.
- 2). Check the home's framing in the basement or attic to see whether the holes around the ductwork are large enough. Ductwork expands and contracts as it heats and cools. If the holes are not large enough, the noise may be caused by friction from the ductwork. Consult a professional home inspector before attempting to enlarge the holes, since removing too much wood can compromise the home's structural integrity.
- 3). Consult an HVAC contractor about installing duct liners. Duct liners made from fiberglass or foam wrap around the ductwork, which increases thermal efficiency, offers insulation against moisture and provides sound absorption.
- 4). Ask the contractor or home inspector to check whether the fan is the correct size for the furnace and whether it is operating correctly. A fan that is too small may be noisy because it is overworking. In addition, the fan or filters may need cleaning. Dirty fans and filters make the system work harder, which can send noisy vibrations through the ductwork and throughout the home.