Boiler Operation

Have your service company perform a detailed analysis of your system. The check should include analysis of firing rate, flue draft, airfuel ratio, stack temperature, combustion air setting, flue carbon dioxide and oxygen readings, and control calibrations.
Adjust, repair or recalibrate controls and settings as needed. If the proper airwater level is not marked on your sight glass (if present) have it marked.
Scale (mineral deposits) inside the boiler reduces the efficiency of the boiler and may lead to stress problems and leaks. Proper chemical treatment of boiler water will reduce scale build-up and control condensate water pH and corrosion potential. When the boiler is shut down, inspect for scale deposits, accumulation of sediment or boiler compounds on the water-side surfaces.
Stack flue gas temperatures should be no more than 150�° greater than the steam or water temperature. Clean and scrape fire-side tubes to remove soot and scale if the desired temperature split is exceeded. Add stack thermometer if necessary.
Check boiler insulation, refractory, brick work, and boiler casing for hot spots and air leaks; repair and seal as necessary.
Proper combustion air intake ensures maximum safety as well as efficiency. Interlock combustion air intake with burner operations.
If your boilers are large, a daily log of boiler operation may be helpful. Chart boiler pressure, temperature, CO2, O2, steam or condensate flow, and other data from the boiler. Variations from normal can indicate the need for tube and nozzle cleaning, pressure or linkage adjustments, and related airfuel or draft adjustments.
Small, frequent boiler blowdowns are more effective than larger, less frequent blowdowns. Schedule blowdown when needed as indicated by regular boiler water tests, rather than by a fixed schedule. Inspect nozzles or cups of oil-fired burners on a regular basis and clean if needed. Inspect oil line strainers and r