Every furnace needs some type of fuel to readily combust and initiate the ignition process. Many Grapevine buildings rely on gas furnaces to keep their interiors warm. What happens if the furnace gas pressure is too low to supply fuel?
At Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing, we specialize in furnace repair in Grapevine, TX. We’ll outline the reasons behind low gas pressure and how you can identify this issue below.
What Does Gas Pressure Mean?
Furnaces rely on various fuels, including oil, propane, electricity, and gas. Let’s focus on gas since this fuel type relies on particular line layouts and components to travel from the tank to your building. Gas pressure refers to the fuel’s force as it moves through the gas lines.
Low gas pressure can lead to incomplete combustion in the furnace. That means your heating equipment doesn’t receive sufficient fuel at any given time to generate and transfer heat throughout the building. So, how do you know when the gas pressure is too low in your home or business?
Do You Know When Your Furnace Gas Pressure Is Too Low?
Your furnace can’t talk to you directly to tell you that the gas pressure needs an adjustment. However, it can communicate in other ways if you pay close attention. Check for the following low gas pressure symptoms to determine whether you need a technician to examine your property’s supply lines:
- High indoor humidity: The warm, dry air a functioning furnace produces will curtail moisture levels. Low fuel pressure limits the heat, which enables humidity to increase exponentially.
- Lukewarm air output: The air whooshing through the vents feels noticeably cooler than it should.
- Expensive energy bills: Your furnace could operate for extended periods in an attempt to reach your preferred temperature settings, often to no avail. This drives up your utility bills.
- Carbon monoxide alerts: You should never ignore carbon monoxide alarms as they warn of danger and may indicate the furnace gas pressure is too low.
These signs may mean something else is wrong with your furnace in Grapevine, Texas. However, each is a key hallmark of gas-line concerns on its own.
Why Might the Gas Pressure Drop in the Gas Lines on Your Property in Grapevine, Texas?
Let’s explore why the gas pressure might fall on a property in Grapevine, Texas. Sometimes, you just need a fuel top-off. Other times, a local gas technician should adjust the lines. You’ll learn which issue needs professional services below.
Valve Settings
Most fuel lines feature a valve that controls pressure and gas flow. If you turn the valve too far in one direction, it lowers the pressure and fuel amount allowed to move through the lines.
A valve replacement or adjustment typically mitigates the gas valve malfunction. While a furnace gas pressure adjustment is a fairly simple fix, you should divert the task to a qualified HVAC technician in Grapevine, Texas.
Leaky Lines
Gas lines work much like plumbing systems — they can develop leaks and blockages, too. Corrosion typically causes the average line leak, but other issues might weaken the gas line as well:
- Slow, undetectable ground shifts move and loosen the lines.
- Pests might chew through weakened piping during warm weather.
- Subpar installation might leave loose connections and valves behind.
- Above-ground activity from vehicles or heavy machinery may put too much pressure on the lines.
- A gas-powered appliance can spring a leak that affects other areas.
Any of these concerns can make the furnace gas pressure too low to power the furnace.
Blocked Lines
Gas line blockages are another issue akin to common plumbing problems. Your fuel infrastructure might develop a clog because of excess debris buildup in the line’s interior. A pest infestation can lead to nests or fur and shell sheddings inside the pipes. Tree roots might infiltrate the pipe materials, preventing gas from flowing freely.
Low Fuel Supply
The only issue that doesn’t require help from a trained HVAC professional is a low fuel supply. You can just call your gas company to refill your tank. Then, your furnace and other gas-powered appliances should return to their expected functions.
Let Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing Adjust Your Gas Pressure in Grapevine, Texas
If you suspect the furnace gas pressure is too low and know you have enough fuel, contact Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing for services in Grapevine, Texas. You can also trust our insightful furnace maintenance tips and troubleshooting advice. Read up on the reasons for a noisy furnace and other HVAC topics you should know.