Gas furnaces are the most common type of furnace among homeowners in Lebanon, CT. Although gas furnaces are robust and cost-effective, your heating system won’t work properly with inadequate gas pressure.
If you suspect your furnace gas pressure is too low, call us at SM Mechanical Services LLC. We’re proud to be Lebanon’s premium furnace repair service. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and resolve any heating system issue.
Does Furnace Gas Pressure Matter?
Most furnaces require gas pressures of 3.2 to 3.7 WC to work adequately. Natural gas typically flows into your home through the main supply line at a higher pressure, so a gas regulator must lower the pressure before the gas enters your heating system.
The gas regulator ensures that your furnace receives exactly as much gas as it needs and cuts off the flow in time to prevent high gas pressure and overheating. If a furnace gets too hot, the system will shut off automatically to let the furnace cool down. However, low gas pressure is just as common and as problematic in furnaces.
What Happens If the Gas Pressure Is Low?
Gas furnaces create energy and heat through combustion. Your heating system needs enough gas pressure to perform the combustion process. Low furnace gas pressure can cause incomplete combustion, which means your furnace runs inefficiently. You may see higher energy bills as your heating system strains to match your thermostat setting.
Incomplete combustion and lower heat output also mean less evaporation and higher moisture in your heating system. Your furnace may then suffer from rust and corrosion and require more repairs. Moreover, your furnace may release dangerous carbon monoxide, and your overall indoor air quality may suffer.
Reasons for Low Gas Pressure
What causes low furnace gas pressure? Let’s look into several possible reasons.
1. Improper Valve Setting
A gas furnace includes a component called the manifold, which directs gas from the valve to the burner. Improper installation or malfunctions may create low gas pressure that doesn’t match the furnace capacity. Note that propane furnaces require higher pressure.
2. Corrosion
Water vapors form as a byproduct of the combustion process after every heating cycle. This creates moisture, which gradually causes corrosion. As rust builds up on the valve, it can restrict gas flow and lower gas pressure.
3. Pest Infestations
Pest infestations may also wreak havoc on your furnace gas pressure. During the summer, while your heating system isn’t in use, insects, rodents, and birds may infiltrate your furnace. They may build nests and leave grass, twigs, and droppings behind. These messes can create blockages, interfere with gas flow, and lower gas pressure.
4. Issues With Gas Supply
Problems with gas lines may likewise cause low furnace gas pressure. Incorrect gas line installation, too-small pipes, or gas line blockages may hamper gas flow and cause low pressure. If there’s no obvious problem with your furnace that may create low gas pressure, you should probably have your gas line inspected.
How Can You Recognize Low Gas Pressure?
Pilot light issues are a common symptom of low furnace gas pressure. If your furnace isn’t getting enough gas, it may affect flame stability. The pilot light may go out repeatedly, or you may see a yellow or weak flame instead of a steady blue one.
You may also notice that your furnace performs poorly or inconsistently. For example, your heating system can take longer than usual to reach the desired temperature, or you may notice that some areas in your home are warmer or colder than others. Your heating bills may climb even though you don’t heat your home more than usual.
What To Do If You Think Your Furnace Gas Pressure Is Low
When you suspect you have a problem with furnace gas pressure, you must first determine whether it’s an issue with your gas line or your furnace. Do you use other gas-powered appliances, like a water heater or a stove? Check these to see whether they’re working properly. If not, call your gas supplier.
If you determine your gas line works as it should, call an HVAC professional and schedule a furnace inspection. The technician will check your heating system and perform gas valve adjustments as necessary.
HVAC experts test the furnace valve and gas pressure with a manometer. First, the technician will cut off the gas and power flow to the furnace. Then they’ll use the manometer on the gas valve’s pressure gauge and turn the furnace back on. Finally, they’ll adjust gas pressure until it’s in the optimal range.
Important: any furnace repairs are a job for the pros. Trying to fix low gas pressure yourself could damage your furnace and potentially create a dangerous gas leak. DIY repairs could also void any heating system warranties. Moreover, your homeowners insurance will probably refuse to cover any damage resulting from improper repairs.
Preventing Furnace Issues in Lebanon, CT
Regular furnace maintenance can help catch a range of possible issues that could make your heating system work less efficiently, including problems with furnace gas pressure.
An HVAC tech will check not just gas pressure, but all your heating system components to make sure they’re working properly. Your furnace will serve you longer and waste less energy with routine upkeep. A well-maintained heating system could last 15 years or more, although in some cases it makes sense to upgrade to a newer and more efficient model.
December through February are the coldest months in Lebanon, CT, so we recommend scheduling a fall tune-up to ensure your furnace will keep your home warm and cozy throughout the winter.
Heating System Problems in Lebanon, CT? Call SM Mechanical Services LLC
Do you suspect that low furnace gas pressure prevents your heating system from working properly? At SM Mechanical Services LLC, we offer fast, cost-effective repair and maintenance for all major furnace models. We also provide emergency HVAC services in Lebanon, CT, and other nearby locations.
Contact us to schedule a service call.