Ways to Quiet the Intake Vent on a Furnace

Insulation

• Insulation refers to insulation placed around the ductwork itself to keep the ductwork warm. This may seem like a strange idea, but in cold months the ductwork metal will contract. When the furnace turns on, the metal will warm up again and start to expand, which can cause creaks and groans near the furnace vents. You can insulate the vents to prevent such contraction and expansion issues.

Liners

• You can buy acoustic duct liners and install them on the insides of your vents. This will prevent any vent sounds from echoing throughout your house. This is especially useful if you have a noisy furnace or rattling vent that is echoing through the intake but cannot be stopped. The liners will deaden the sound, lessening its impact on the rest of the house while still allowing the furnace to function as before.

Padding

• Padding refers to the small pieces of rubber or insulation that you can use to help secure vents. This is a good solution if you find that your intake vent is rattling against wood framing or other metalwork nearby. The padding provides support and muffles any sound that would be created by a rattling vent. It is also an inexpensive and easy-to-accomplish solution.

Bolts

• Sometimes the intake vent itself may have come loose. Carefully check the bolts that secure the vent for signs of loose bolts or rust. You may be able to replace the bolts and solve the problem. If the sound is coming from further down the ductwork, you may have a problem with bracketing in your ducts that bears a closer look. Replacing the bracketing, like replacing the bolts, can solve the problem.