What can happen if the burner nozzle in an oil furnace is clogged?

When the burner nozzle in an oil furnace becomes clogged, the fuel oil cannot be atomized properly, which is essential for efficient combustion. This results in incomplete combustion of the fuel. Incomplete combustion means that not all of the oil is being converted into useful energy, leading to an increase in unburned fuel which can cause soot build-up, increased smoke production, and emissions of harmful byproducts such as carbon monoxide. Therefore, incomplete combustion can significantly affect the operational efficiency of the furnace, leading to reduced heating performance and potential safety hazards.

In the context of this scenario, increased airflow, improved efficiency, and reduced emissions are typically characteristics associated with a properly functioning burner nozzle, making them not applicable when the nozzle is clogged. Proper combustion relies on optimal conditions that a clogged nozzle disrupts, emphasizing the critical role of the nozzle in the overall efficiency and safety of an oil burner system.