Growing up as a kid in the late 1960s and early 1970s, I remember the sounds that used to emanate from the baseboard radiators in our house. We always knew when the heat was working properly because of the sounds we heard. If odd sounds were emanating from the radiators, we knew something was up.
Radiators still exist today despite most homes being equipped with forced-air systems. But do modern radiator systems still make the same noises? Pretty much. Some of the noises are harmless and can be ignored. Others signify that you might have problems with your central heat.
How Radiators Work
Radiators work by transferring heat from hot water or another liquid into the air as it passes through the unit. The liquid itself is heated by a central boiler or furnace. Electricity or gas can power boilers and furnaces.
Some heat pump systems also utilize radiators instead of forced air systems. Energy extracted from the ground or exterior air heats water before it is sent through the radiators.
Radiator Sounds and What They Mean
Modern radiators can make all sorts of sounds. Different sounds mean different things. Below is a rundown of the most common sounds, compliments of Superior Water & Air out of Utah. Superior is an HVAC and plumbing contractor servicing the Salt Lake City region and Washington County.
1. Gurgling or Running Sounds
Radiators sometimes make gurgling sounds. You might also hear what sounds like running water. Both are indications that air has gotten into the system and is now trapped either in the pipes or in the radiator itself.
This particular issue is not critical. But it can make a central heating system less efficient. Fortunately, the solution is simple: you bleed the radiator to release trapped air. An HVAC contractor will know how to do it.
2. Banging and Knocking Sounds
Although I don’t remember banging and knocking sounds in my home, I remember hearing them at my school. The sounds are typical of what the industry refers to as ‘kettling’. Here’s what’s happening: limescale or sludge buildup is causing the water in the system to overheat. This creates steam that leads to the noises as it breaks through blockages.
Although settling isn’t critical, it does need to be dealt with at some point. A power flush will usually take care of it.
3. Clicking and Ticking Sounds
The metal components in a radiator normally expand and contract with temperature changes. As they do, they generate clicking and ticking sounds. The sounds are harmless and normal. Expect them if you have radiators.
4. Whistling and Whining
High-pitched whistling and whining sounds are generally the result of too much water flowing through the system. A simple valve adjustment will usually solve the problem. However, this is something homeowners should not attempt to do on their own. Improperly adjusting a valve could lead to big problems down the road.
5. Rattling and Vibrating
The most concerning sounds associated with radiators are rattling and vibrating sounds. This indicates a loose connection, an unsecured pipe, or a loose component within the radiator itself. Such sounds are good reasons to call in an HVAC contractor for an inspection. Ignoring rattling and vibrating sounds could lead to a future leak and even bigger problems.
Radiator-based heat is still popular because of its efficiency and consistency. And quite frankly, the sounds associated with them can be quite charming. But if you have radiators and they start making sounds you are unfamiliar with, there is no harm in contacting an HVAC contractor.
