How can you find the water level if the gauge glass is broken?

The correct approach to determine the water level in a boiler when the gauge glass is broken is to open the tri-cocks individually. Tri-cocks are auxiliary fittings on the boiler that allow operators to assess the water level without relying on the gauge glass. By opening each tri-cock, you can observe the water level directly through the openings. This method provides a direct and reliable indication of the water level in the boiler, which is crucial for maintaining safe operation.

Utilizing a dipstick, while feasible in some contexts, is less common and may not provide immediate results or accuracy. Tapping on the gauge glass does not address the broken gauge and is unlikely to provide any useful information regarding the water level. Increasing steam pressure could potentially complicate the situation, as it may lead to further issues without clarifying the water level effectively. Therefore, using the tri-cocks is the recommended and safest method to assess the water level when the gauge glass is inoperative.