Red Seal Oil Heat System Technician Practice Exam

How does a thermocouple work in an oil heating system?

1. It regulates flow of heating oil

2. It converts heat into electrical current

3. It maintains the heating oil temperature

4. It filters impurities from the oil

The correct answer is: It converts heat into electrical current

A thermocouple works based on the principle of thermoelectricity, where it converts heat into an electrical voltage. In an oil heating system, it consists of two dissimilar metal wires joined at one end, which generates a small voltage when there is a temperature difference between the joined end and the other ends of the wires. This voltage can be used to monitor temperature and can signal control systems or safety devices, making it crucial for the operation of the heating system. Using this principle, a thermocouple helps ensure that the system runs safely and efficiently by providing real-time temperature readings. This is essential for maintaining proper operation and preventing overheating, but its main function is the conversion of heat into an electrical signal, which can then be utilized for various control purposes in the heating system.