# Duct Noises Can Catch You Off Guard, But What Do They Mean? > Some duct noises aren't a cause for concern, while others can point to HVAC issues. Here's how to tell what some of the most common ductwork noises mean. Are unusual sounds emanating from the duct work hidden behind your home's air registers? Some duct noises aren't a cause for concern, while others can point to HVAC system issues that impact comfort, indoor air quality and [energy efficiency](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/taking-whole-house-systems-approach-energy-efficiency-can-work-home.html). Here's how to tell what some of the most common ductwork noises mean: ## **Popping** [![air ducts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/air-ducts-300x242.jpg)](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/air-ducts.jpg)When the blower cycles on and pushes air through the ducts, the increase in pressure against the metal can cause a popping noise. This type of sound is completely normal. It's often more noticeable when ducting is new or just cleaned, since accumulating dust has a muffling effect. ## **Whistling** If the ductwork is leaky, escaping air can produce a whistling sound when the blower is running. Having the ducting properly sealed and insulated can stop the noise, and prevent unnecessary energy losses that rob you of up to 30 percent of the equipment's heating or cooling output. ## **Banging and Rattling** Loose or disconnected duct sections can bang or rattle when the heating and cooling equipment is operating. Checking all the joints, correcting any poor connections and then sealing the ducts using mastic or metal-backed tape can solve the noise issue and help avert future problems. ## **Scraping** Metal ducts expand in response to temperature changes. If enough space wasn't allowed around the ducts during installation, you may hear a scraping noise when the expanding metal rubs against floor joists or other building components. ## **Whooshing or Roaring** While it's normal to hear a low roar or whoosh through the ducts when the air handler is running, a sudden increase in noise volume warns you that airflow has become restricted. If replacing the system's [air filter](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/getting-best-furnace-filter-coming-heating-season.html) doesn't help, contact an HVAC professional to identify the cause before airflow loss issues lead to equipment damage. ## **Scuttling** If you're hearing scuttling sounds, rodents may have taken up residence in the ducts. Contact an exterminator to get rid of the infestation, then schedule [duct cleaning](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/know-replace-ductwork-just-cleaned.html) to remove any contaminants. For expert advice about the cause of duct noises in your home in the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts, contact [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://www.shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/duct-noises-can-catch-guard-mean.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/duct-noises-can-catch-guard-mean.html)