What can happen if the air-to-fuel ratio is incorrect in a gas heating system?

When the air-to-fuel ratio is incorrect in a gas heating system, improper combustion occurs due to the imbalance between the amount of air and fuel being utilized. Combustion requires a specific ratio of fuel to air to burn efficiently. If there is too much fuel and not enough air (rich mixture), it can lead to incomplete combustion, resulting in the production of carbon monoxide, unburned fuel, and soot. Conversely, too much air (lean mixture) can cause a drop in temperature and also lead to inefficient combustion.

This improper combustion affects not only the performance and efficiency of the heating system but also poses safety risks, specifically the potential buildup of harmful byproducts. Therefore, ensuring the air-to-fuel ratio is optimized is critical for safe and effective operation of gas heating systems.