When temperatures drop, your furnace should keep your home warm and comfortable. But if it is blowing lukewarm air or struggling to reach your set temperature, something is not working as it suppose to be. A furnace that isn’t producing enough heat can be caused by anything from dirty filters to mechanical failures. Monterey Peninsula Sheet Metal & Heating would like to take a look at the most common reasons your furnace isn’t heating properly and what you can do about it.
Faulty Blower Motor
Your furnace’s blower motor is responsible for pushing warm air through the duct system. If it’s malfunctioning or not running at the right speed, your furnace may produce heat but fail to circulate it properly. If you notice weak airflow or unusual noises coming from the furnace, the blower motor could be failing. Have an HVAC technician inspect and repair or replace the motor to restore proper air movement.
Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
Gas furnaces rely on a pilot light or electronic ignition system to ignite the burners. If these components fail, your furnace won’t generate enough heat or any heat at all. When your furnace is not starting check the:
• For standing pilot lights, make sure the flame is lit and burning blue and is not yellow or orange.
• For electronic ignitions, call a professional to inspect the ignitor or flame sensor.
Never attempt to repair or replace ignition components on your own, it can be dangerous without proper training.
Dirty Burners
Over time, dust and soot can build up on the burners, causing incomplete combustion and reducing heat output. This results in uneven heating and lower efficiency. Schedule professional furnace maintenance to have your burners cleaned and inspected. A technician can also adjust the burner alignment to ensure optimal performance.
Aging or Undersized Furnace
If your furnace is more than 15 to 20 years old, it may no longer be capable of producing enough heat efficiently. Likewise, a furnace that’s too small for your home will constantly run without ever reaching the set temperature. Have a qualified HVAC technician evaluate your system’s size, age, and performance. Upgrading to a modern, high-efficiency furnace can improve comfort, reduce energy bills, and eliminate uneven heating.
Low Gas Supply or Valve Issues
If your furnace isn’t getting enough gas, it won’t produce enough heat. A partially closed gas valve, gas line obstruction, or low fuel supply can cause weak heating or prevent ignition. Check that the gas valve is fully open and that other gas appliances are functioning properly. If you suspect a gas issue, contact your utility company or a licensed HVAC technician immediately never attempt to fix gas-related problems yourself.
When to Call a Professional
If you have checked your filter, thermostat, and vents but your furnace still is not producing enough heat, it is time to call a licensed HVAC professional. A technician can diagnose issues with the ignition system, blower motor, or heat exchanger problems that require expert handling to ensure safety and reliability.
Emergency Heating Repair, Maintenance, Installation & More in Carmel, Pebble Beach, Seaside, Carmel Valley, Santa Cruz, Hollister, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Salinas, Soledad, Gilroy, Pacific Grove, Spreckles, Palmdale, Carmel-By-The-Sea & Greater Monterey, California
A furnace that isn’t producing enough heat isn’t just inconvenient it’s a sign that your system needs attention. Regular maintenance and annual inspections can help prevent most of these issues before they affect your comfort. For furnace repairs and more, call Monterey Peninsula Sheet Metal & Heating today.
