What is the effect of high elevation on gas appliances?

In high elevation locations, the atmospheric pressure is lower than it is at sea level. This change in pressure directly affects how gas appliances operate because they are designed to burn gas at specific pressure levels for optimal performance. As elevation increases, the availability of oxygen for combustion decreases, leading to a scenario where gas appliances have less oxygen to mix with the gas. Consequently, this results in a reduced efficiency of the combustion process.

When appliances operate in these conditions, the fuel-to-air ratio can become unbalanced, causing incomplete combustion, reduced heat output, and potentially higher emissions of unburned fuel or products of combustion. Therefore, the impact of high elevation manifests as a decrease in efficiency, which can require adjustments in the settings of gas appliances to adapt to lower pressures and maintain safe and efficient operation. Understanding this relationship is crucial for technicians to ensure appliances function correctly in varying atmospheric conditions.