Red Seal Oil Heat System Technician Practice Exam

What is a main feature of a barometric damper in an oil heat system?

1. It regulates the oil temperature

2. It helps regulate draft in the flue

3. It increases oil pressure

4. It improves burner ignition

The correct answer is: It helps regulate draft in the flue

A barometric damper is primarily designed to help regulate draft in the flue of an oil heat system. This component is essential for ensuring that the combustion process is efficient and safe. It allows for the proper balance of air entering the flue, which is crucial for maintaining an optimal draft for the combustion gases produced by the burner. By ensuring that the draft is neither too strong nor too weak, the barometric damper contributes to efficient fuel combustion and helps prevent issues like backdrafts, which can lead to the accumulation of carbon monoxide or other hazardous gases in the living space. Therefore, its main function is to enhance the overall safety and efficiency of the heating system by managing the draft and, by extension, the performance of the burner and combustion chamber.