Boiler checkups back in the day were a lot less measurable than they are now. When technicians would inspect the flame, the way the flame looked indicated whether there was either too much gas and not enough oxygen or vice versa. The presence of extra gas leaking into a home or building has the potential to reduce oxygen in the home which can cause headaches and other sicknesses, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and even pose the danger of explosions. Still today, there are companies that only rely on eyeing the flame instead of using a digital combustion analyzer.
- Too much oxygen vs. gas: A stiff and noisy flame
- Too much gas vs. oxygen: A soft flame orange in color and wavy
- Just right: Completely blue flame with rounded tips
Even so, what looks like a proper flame in color and roundness doesn’t mean it’s not emitting dangerous invisible gasses. Nowadays, thankfully, we have the technology that measures what couldn’t be measured before. In layman’s terms, a combustion analysis measures the amount of air and gas and is able to indicate unsafe levels of either. By analyzing the readers, our service experts can make sure the flame is adjusted accordingly and safely. More specifically, it measures carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and more. The ability to complete combustion analyses with accuracy on heating equipment has improved safety for technicians, equipment, homes, as well as for the people living in the home.
With the outside temps falling and the thermostat temps ticking up, this is a great time to discuss combustion analysis as more and more turn on their heating systems. If you’ve done this and are finding your heating isn’t working as well as it should, give A/C Masters a call to complete a checkup on your heating system. Analyzers can be used for boilers but also for any HVAC equipment. Combustion analysis can help catch issues such as a cracked heat exchanger needing repairs and help maintain safe levels of gas and oxygen for your system.
A/C Masters is one of only three companies in the Hampton Roads area that has the capability and machinery necessary to conduct combustion analysis on your HVAC equipment. The investment for one of these machines is large, but the importance of safety is priceless. A/C Masters strives to treat our customers just as we would treat our families, and that means investing in advanced tools, furthering our education, and employing up-to-date and proven methods for our customers. We aim to continue with our reputation of high-quality service in order to keep you, your family, and your home safe. Combustion analysis as well as proper ventilation should be checked every year. Contact A/C Masters to schedule your heating system maintenance today.