A header height control system and a method for improving the responsiveness of a header height control system. A height sensor is disposed with respect to the header to generate a signal varying in magnitude with respect to changes in distance between a preestablished point on the header and the ground. The magnitude of the generated signal when the header is at a predefined set point is determined. For generated signal magnitudes indicating the header is below the set point, the signal magnitudes are operably modified by applying a gain value. For generated signal magnitudes indicating the header is above the set point, the signal magnitudes may be modified by applying a different gain value. The application of a gain value or different gain values depending on the height of the header above or below the set point improves the responsiveness of the header height control system to changes in terrain.