12 Burner Problems to Know

1. I hear a bang in my fuel burner. Why?

Your nozzle is likely positioned too far forward. The flame struggles to form because the air around the nozzle is circulating too quickly.

2. Why is my fuel nozzle leaking at startup?

The fuel pump or the pressure regulator may be clogged or even defective. There's not enough pressure, causing the fuel to leak, which leads to a nozzle failure.

3. Why does the nozzle leak while my boiler is running?

Your nozzle is too far back, and the head of the burner likely attracts some of it.
This may also be caused by electrodes that are misaligned. There could also be a leak between the nozzle and the nozzle holder.
Is your nozzle clogged or damaged?
Is the fuel pressure too low? Check the manometer to confirm.

4. The nozzle leaks when my boiler is off. Why?

The fuel valve or the pressure regulator is likely defective or clogged. It is also possible that air has gotten into the pipe between the nozzle and the fuel pump.

5. Why is the flame of my fuel burner deflected?

Check the condition and position of your nozzle, following all the advice we just reviewed.
If it's not the nozzle, the flame retention head or the burner head may be dirty or defective.

6. Why is the fuel not flowing properly in my fuel burner?

There are indeed several possible reasons, in addition to those already mentioned. Consult a professional if our advice on the nozzle is insufficient. There may be an issue with the fuel pump, the backflow preventer, the suction valve, etc.

7. Why is my burner flame sparking?

Carbon is forming because the droplets are too large. When carbon burns, sparks appear. An excess of air can also cause this effect. In both cases, you will find fuel coke and soot in your boiler, which will affect your system's thermal performance.

8. Why is there a leak between the nozzle and the nozzle holder of my fuel burner?

The seals between the two are likely damaged. They should not be over-tightened during installation.

9. Why is the flue gas temperature too high?

There may be an excess of air or too high a pressure. Your nozzle may also be too large for your boiler's capabilities.
If that's not the case, then consult a heating professional.

10. Why is the flue gas temperature too low?

This is the opposite of the previous question: generally caused by a lack of air, low pressure, or a nozzle that is too small.

11. Why is the flame much larger than before?

The nozzle has too small an angle or the flow rate is too high for the boiler. It could also be that the fuel is too cold or there is an issue with the flame retention head or the burner head.

12. There is fuel leaking all around the nozzle, why?

Check your nozzle against all our advice. It may also be that pet hair or dust has mixed with the drawn-in air, causing malfunctions.
Ensure there is no overpressure, that the electrodes are properly positioned, that the flame retention head and burner head are in good condition, that there are no leaks between the nozzle and the nozzle holder, that the fuel is not too viscous, and that there is no coke deposited.