Massachusetts Oil Burner License Practice Test

To reduce combustion problems caused by cold oil, what should be done?

1. Decrease the pump pressure

2. Increase the pump pressure, install a nozzle line pre-heater, and use additives or kerosene to lower viscosity

3. Heat the oil tank externally

4. Stop using kerosene

The correct answer is: Increase the pump pressure, install a nozzle line pre-heater, and use additives or kerosene to lower viscosity

The most effective method to reduce combustion problems associated with cold oil is to increase the pump pressure, install a nozzle line pre-heater, and use additives or kerosene to lower viscosity. Cold oil can significantly increase the viscosity of the fuel, making it difficult for the burner to atomize the oil properly. By increasing the pump pressure, you can help ensure that the fuel is delivered at the appropriate rate and pressure for efficient combustion. Additionally, installing a nozzle line pre-heater can warm the oil as it travels to the burner, further reducing viscosity and improving atomization at the point of combustion. Finally, using additives or a lighter fuel like kerosene can help to lower the overall viscosity of the oil, enhancing its flow characteristics at lower temperatures. Heating the oil tank externally may seem beneficial, but it is not as effective in addressing the underlying issues of fuel viscosity reduction compared to the comprehensive approach of modifying pressure, using pre-heaters, and additives. Decreasing pump pressure would likely exacerbate combustion issues, and stopping the use of kerosene would eliminate a potential solution rather than providing benefits.