You may be asking yourself “What is a Puff Back?” It may sound like a French pastry, but it is nothing like it.
A Puff Back is a malfunction of an oil burner in a home or structure that results in smoke damage throughout. Technically it is referred to as a “delayed ignition explosion”. You may become aware that your heating system experienced a Puff Back when you notice black/grey lines on your walls, ceilings and in the corner of your rooms.
What causes a Puff Back?
Oil is a liquid that ignites as a gas. To turn oil into a gas it is pumped through a small orifice or nozzle then ignited. When the nozzle is clogged, the oil continues to try to pump, the pressure releases the blockage and ignites a larger than normal amount of fuel. This results in soot leaving the confines of the heating system and traveling throughout the home.
What are the damages from a Puff Back?
The petroleum bases soot deposits on the surfaces of your home must be cleaned, sealed, and painted. Hardwood floors need to be sanded and refinished. Carpeting and window treatments may need to be replaced. Soft furniture like sofas and bedding may necessitate replacement. The damage can be quite extensive.
What can I do to prevent a Puff Back?
Pumping the oil in the bottom of the tank where sediment or sludge may be present sometimes blocks the nozzle causing Puff Backs. Keeping your oil tank topped off decreases that risk. Getting your heater services annually also decreases the risk of a Puff Back. The annual service normally includes cleaning the unit, replacing the tanks filter and replacing the nozzle.
What do I do if I suspect I had a Puff Back?
First Call: To a heater technician to service your heating unit.
Second Call: To Property Adjustment Corporation to properly present the claim to your Insurance carrier and evaluate the benefits due under your Insurance policy.
