A properly working furnace should keep your home warm and comfortable during cold weather. But if your furnace is blowing lukewarm air, struggling to reach the thermostat setting, or taking too long to heat your home, it may not be producing enough heat. Understanding the common causes can help you identify the problem and take action before it leads to bigger issues. Monterey Peninsula Sheet Metal & Heating would like to breakdown the reasons why your furnace might be underperforming and how to fix it.
Faulty Blower Motor
The blower motor circulates heated air through your home. If the motor is not working correctly, the furnace may produce heat but fail to distribute it efficiently. Common signs of a faulty blower motor include weak airflow and strange noises from the furnace. A licensed HVAC technician can inspect, repair, or replace the blower motor to restore proper airflow.
Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
For gas furnaces, the pilot light or electronic ignition lights the burners. If these components fail, the furnace won’t produce enough heat or any heat at all. If your furnace is having a hard time starting include, furnace doesn’t heat properly, flame is yellow instead of blue or furnace cycles on and off. Check that the pilot light is lit for older systems. If the ignitor is faulty, call a professional for inspection and replacement.
Dirty or Malfunctioning Burners
Burners that are dirty or misaligned can reduce heat output. Dust, soot, and corrosion prevent complete combustion, which lowers efficiency and prevents your home from warming evenly. Schedule a professional furnace cleaning and inspection. Proper maintenance ensures burners operate efficiently and safely.
Aging or Undersized Furnace
Older furnaces that are 15 to 20 years old lose efficiency over time. Likewise, a furnace that’s too small for your home will struggle to reach the desired temperature. Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace that’s properly sized for your home. Modern units provide consistent heat, lower energy bills, and improved comfort.
Gas Supply or Valve Issues
If your gas furnace isn’t receiving enough fuel, it can’t generate sufficient heat. A partially closed valve, gas line obstruction, or low fuel supply can reduce performance. Ensure your gas valve is fully open and that other gas appliances are functioning properly. If problems persist, contact your gas company or a licensed HVAC technician.
When to Call a Professional
If you have checked your filter, thermostat, and vents but your furnace still isn’t producing enough heat, it’s time to call a licensed HVAC technician. They can inspect your system for ignition issues, faulty heat exchanger, blower motor or duct problems and gas supply or venting concerns. Prompt attention prevents further damage and ensures your home stays warm and safe.
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 inspections can prevent many of these problems, extend the life of your furnace, and keep your home comfortable all winter long. If your furnace is struggling to heat your home, schedule a professional inspection with Monterey Peninsula Sheet Metal & Heating today to restore efficiency, comfort and peace of mind. Call us today!
