Before firing a gas burner in a steam boiler system, what is the first thing that must be checked?

In a steam boiler system, ensuring the safety and proper functioning of the equipment is crucial before initiating the firing sequence of a gas burner. The first step should be to check the amount of water in the boiler. This is essential because the boiler must have an adequate water level to prevent overheating and potential damage to the boiler components. If the water level is too low, it can lead to a range of dangerous conditions, including the risk of a boiler explosion or damage from overheating the metal components.

Monitoring the water level ensures that there is sufficient water to convert to steam and to maintain safe operating conditions. This fundamental step emphasizes the importance of following proper operational procedures to minimize risks when handling gas appliances in a steam system.