What is a pre-purge?

A pre-purge is a crucial safety and operational procedure in heating systems that involve combustion, such as boilers or furnaces. It refers to the process of clearing out any residual gases from the combustion chamber and venting system before the pilot light is ignited. This step ensures that any potentially harmful gases are displaced and reduces the risk of explosion or fire when the burner operates.

By conducting a pre-purge, the system can achieve safe operation by allowing fresh air into the combustion area, thereby promoting efficient combustion when the fuel is introduced. This method aligns with safety regulations and best practices in stationary engineering, where the emphasis is placed on ensuring a safe working environment.

The other choices do not accurately define a pre-purge. For example, purging after the pilot is lit would occur at a different phase of operation and is not related to the initial safety process of ensuring that any unwanted gases are removed before ignition occurs. Cooling the firebox and cleaning the combustion chamber are also not directly related to the pre-purge process, as they involve different aspects of maintenance and operation of the furnace or boiler.