How does a low fire setting benefit the burner at startup?

A low fire setting at startup is primarily beneficial because it facilitates ignition. When a burner is set to low fire, it provides a smaller, more manageable flame that allows for a controlled environment where the fuel and air can properly mix. This reduces the likelihood of backdrafts or explosions that can occur if too much fuel is introduced too quickly. A smaller flame makes it easier to achieve stable ignition and allows for a gradual increase in temperature, which is particularly important in preventing damage to the burner and other components of the heating system.

While conserving fuel is important, which comes into play once the burner is operating efficiently, the main focus during startup is ensuring that ignition occurs smoothly and safely. As for increasing speed or maintaining high pressure, these are not priorities at startup. Instead, the low fire setting allows operators to carefully monitor the burner’s performance as it warms up.