What is one indicator of a boiler water chemistry issue?

Excessive foaming or priming is a significant indicator of a boiler water chemistry issue because it often results from poor water treatment or imbalances in the boiler water. Foaming can occur when there are too many contaminants in the water, such as oils, suspended solids, or impurities, which disrupt the normal behavior of the water during the heating process. This disruption prevents steam bubbles from forming in a stable manner, leading to unstable steam production and potentially carrying water droplets along with the steam, which can cause water hammer or damage downstream equipment. Monitoring for foaming is crucial because it provides immediate visual evidence of potential chemistry problems that could affect the efficiency and safety of the boiler's operation.