What happens when a boiler setting leaks air?

• A. There is a decrease in water pressure
• B. There is an increase in the amount of heat lost
• C. There is an increase in fuel efficiency
• D. There is a decrease in performance

Answer: (B)

When a boiler setting leaks air, it introduces external air into the system, which can disrupt the combustion process and lead to inefficiencies. The correct choice highlights that this situation results in an increase in the amount of heat lost. This is because the air leakage can cause incomplete combustion, meaning not all fuel is used effectively to generate heat. Instead, some of the heat escapes through the leaks, reducing the overall thermal efficiency of the boiler. As a result, more fuel is required to achieve the desired heating output, and the system operates less efficiently, leading to excess heat being wasted.

Values such as water pressure, fuel efficiency, and performance can all be affected indirectly, but the most direct and immediate consequence of air leaks is the increase in heat losses from the system.