What is the primary cause of puff back in an oil burner?

The primary cause of puff back in an oil burner is indeed related to a buildup of unburned oil in the combustion chamber. This situation occurs when oil is not ignited properly, leading to an accumulation of unburned fuel. When the ignition finally happens, it can create an explosive backdraft known as a puff back, resulting in a loud noise and potentially damaging the burner and surrounding components.

For effective combustion, the right air-to-fuel ratio is crucial, and if there’s inadequate air supply or improper burner settings, it can lead to incomplete combustion. However, if unburned oil accumulates significantly, it can transition into the scenario that leads to a puff back incident. This is why addressing proper maintenance and ensuring complete combustion are essential in preventing puff backs. By minimizing oil buildup, the risk of such explosive reactions can be significantly decreased.