What Happens If the Furnace Gas Pressure Gets Too Low?

Gas furnaces are popular with many property owners because of their energy efficiency and excellent performance. Yet these systems rely on having adequate gas supply and functional gas pressure regulators to ensure the equipment gets the right amount of fuel. So, what happens if furnace gas pressure is too low?

As a top provider of furnace repair in Louisville, KY, A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling understands the dangers of running a heater without enough gas pressure. Consult our guide below to learn how to recognize low gas pressure and what to do about it.

What Is a Furnace Gas Valve?

Gas furnace valves regulate how much pressurized fuel gas-powered heating systems get. While you could have other gas-fueled appliances that can work well by solely relying on the natural gas line that feeds into your home, this isn’t enough for heating units. This equipment needs a higher gas pressure level than what comes through the main fuel line to work efficiently. 

That’s where the gas valve comes in. The component regulates fuel pressure to ensure the HVAC unit produces enough heat to warm your home as efficiently as possible.

The Furnace Gas Pressure Is Too Low or High. Now What?

What happens if furnace gas pressure is too low? The decline in pressure will cause the heater to operate within a reduced performance range. Without regulated pressure, the furnace’s parts could develop premature wear and tear, which causes additional issues with the equipment and its performance. 

Another consequence of low gas pressure in furnaces is higher energy bills. If the heater doesn’t get enough gas, its components won’t function properly; it’ll consume more energy to heat your home. Energy efficiency reduction often translates to utility bill increases. 

Combustion chamber moisture could also form, creating prime conditions for corrosion and rust. Harmful carbon monoxide released from cracks within the combustion chamber is a strong possibility if condensation becomes a problem. 

But what about excessive pressure? High gas pressure inside your furnace can lead to the following:

• Lingering burning odors
• Overheating inside the heating system
• Constant cycling due to the excess heat triggering the heater’s safety features

Why Furnaces Experience Low Gas Pressure

Now that you know what happens if furnace gas pressure is too low, here are the most common reasons this problem forms.

Incorrect Valve Settings

One of the main culprits behind low furnace gas pressure is incorrect valve settings. You must have a gas pressure valve that works for your heating system’s size and capacity.

Faulty installations and repairs could result in faulty valve settings. Fitting your gas furnace with a valve more suitable for a propane or oil-based system could also mess up the system’s pressure settings.

Gas Valve Corrosion

Rust and corrosion on valves caused by condensation produced during the combustion process can block gas flow. If the furnace doesn’t get enough gas, it won’t achieve the optimal pressure level. 

Pests

Did you know that rodents, insects, and birds could impact your furnace’s gas pressure? Pest infestations in and around the gas pressure valve can create blockages that decrease gas pressure.

What To Expect With Low Gas Pressure in Your Furnace

Below are several problems you could experience if your furnace gas pressure gets too low.

Incomplete Combustion

Without enough gas flow, your heater can’t properly complete its combustion process. A lack of gas or oxygen inside the combustion chamber can increase carbon monoxide production and damage the burners. Professional burner and combustion chamber repairs may be necessary to restore the heating system’s functionality and prevent hazardous combustion byproducts from escaping the furnace.

Inadequate Heat Output From the Furnace

A lack of fuel, incomplete combustion, and overworked components can prevent the furnace from generating enough heat to keep your home as warm as you want. One key warning sign of insufficient gas pressure is a lack of warmth from the HVAC unit. Even if you increase the temperature on your thermostat, the equipment will struggle to reach and maintain that temperature, so your residence will feel colder than usual. 

Pilot Light Issues

Your furnace’s pilot light can also have problems if it doesn’t have enough pressurized gas. Ignition delays and total pilot light failure are possibilities that will require the expertise of a qualified HVAC technician to resolve.

Tips for Addressing Low Furnace Gas Pressure

Many situations with your furnace can cause ignition issues that don’t involve the gas pressure regulator or inadequate fuel pressure. Below, we list a few tips to help you troubleshoot a malfunctioning furnace:

• Use a Manometer. Before adjusting the gas valve, consider using a manometer to gauge your furnace’s fuel pressure level. Shut off the gas supply and turn off your furnace’s electricity by flipping the breaker at your circuit breaker panel before applying the device to your heater’s gas valve.
• Reset the Furnace. Sometimes, resetting HVAC systems helps troubleshoot problems from setting malfunctions. 
• Check Other Gas-Related Appliances. Is your furnace not getting enough gas supply, or is your entire home suffering? If you have a gas water heater or oven, test them out to determine if the issue is solely with your HVAC or your property’s gas line.

If you still have concerns about your heating system after learning what happens if furnace gas pressure is too low, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified HVAC contractor. These experts can inspect your equipment to ensure it’s functional and safe.

Get Help With Your Heating System From A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling

At A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling, we know what happens if furnace gas pressure is too low, thanks to our 40-plus years of industry experience. We strive to deliver top-tier heating services to all Louisville, Kentucky, residents that yield lasting results and keep homes and businesses comfortable all year. 

If your furnace is making weird sounds, operating with less efficiency, or possibly experiencing a gas leak, our certified technicians can quickly diagnose and remedy the situation. We guarantee your satisfaction 100%, so call (502) 708-2247 today for an appointment with A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling.