What Happens if Furnace Gas Pressure Is Too Low?

When cold temperatures settle over Mequon, Wisconsin, there is no question you’ll rely on your furnace to keep things comfortable. A gas unit relies heavily on an uninterrupted gas supply at just the right pressure. So, what happens if furnace gas pressure is too low due to a faulty gas line or other issue? 



Below, Professional Services, a trusted furnace repair expert in Mequon, WI, shares what to expect if your gas furnace runs into this common issue.

Insufficient Furnace Heat Output

The gas valve supplies your furnace with the fuel it needs to operate, but the unit could lose pressure due to various issues. Does your Mequon home seem to have trouble reaching the desired temperature on your thermostat? Is it taking a little longer than it used to for the furnace’s heating cycle to end? 

That’s what happens if furnace gas pressure is too low. And when it does, the furnace won't heat your home properly.

Incomplete Combustion

Low gas pressure often leads to burner malfunction and a faulty combustion process. The unit will need a professional technician to inspect the system and possibly repair the gas valve. The furnace could be running at a reduced pressure due to:

• Blockages due to pests
• Natural corrosion
• Incorrect settings

The HVAC contractor may need to perform repairs to the furnace's combustion chamber as well. An incomplete combustion process creates moisture and more evaporation within the chamber, potentially rusting or cracking the interior. In some cases, faulty equipment might then release dangerous flue gasses, like carbon monoxide, so it’s a safety hazard. 

Furnace Efficiency Reduction

What happens if furnace gas pressure is too low? Professionals will tell you that your energy costs will likely go up. 

A system that can't properly produce heat from burning fuel will work harder to bring your home to the desired temperature and run consistently. The system's fuel efficiency will suffer, which is why your heating costs are sure to spike. 

Pilot Light Failure

If there’s less pressurized gas coming through the value, you'll face issues with your furnace's pilot light, either involving delayed ignition or failing to light entirely. 

Dealing with gas pressure problems during the peak heating system brings a sense of urgency to repairs. Your home won't combat Wisconsin's frigid winter temperatures if the pilot light won't kick off the heating process. 

How To Address Common Gas Furnace Issues Affecting Homeowners in Mequon, WI

Knowing what happens if furnace gas pressure is too low should help you prevent further damage to your heating system. For example, you’ll want to perform the following tasks at the first sign of trouble to prevent a full gas furnace breakdown and feel cozy again:

Hit the Furnace Reset Button

You can sometimes troubleshoot furnace issues like this one by hitting the reset button on your unit. Certain setting malfunctions affect how your furnace operates. Resetting might resolve the issue with the press of a button. 

Test the unit's performance afterward to see if you're still facing gas pressure problems.

Test Other Gas-Powered Appliances

Your furnace might not receive an adequate flow of gas due to a larger gas plumbing issue. Rule this out by trying the gas stove or water heater. If no gas seems to be reaching these gas appliances either, a qualified plumber will have to perform some repairs on the line or supply points.

If no other equipment has lost gas pressure, call a furnace repair technician to restore the valve and leave you with a steady flow of gas. 

Cut the Furnace's Fuel and Electrical Sources

It's best to let a professional inspect your furnace if there’s a need to bring the gas pressure back to a normal level. Never tinker with the unit directly.

In preparation for the technician, shut off the gas supply and flip the circuit breaker switch that powers your furnace. With gas and electricity both deadly, you can never be too careful before beginning repairs on a malfunctioning heating system.

Contact Mequon, WI's Leading HVAC Repair Contractor When You Experience Furnace Problems

Knowing what happens if furnace gas pressure is too low and mitigating these risks can help you enjoy reliable heating throughout Mequon's bitterly cold winters. Professional Services offers assistance with cooling and heating systems, including repair and replacement services for gas and electric-powered heating systems. We also conduct furnace maintenance to extend the life of your unit. 

Take advantage of Professional Services’ expertise – call to request an estimate today!