What can bad washers in a low-pressure boiler's gauge glass cause?

Bad washers in a low-pressure boiler's gauge glass can lead to a false water level reading in the gauge glass. This occurs because the washers are responsible for sealing the connections at the gauge glass. If they are worn out or damaged, they may not create a proper seal. As a result, water or steam could leak past the washer, leading to inaccurate readings that do not reflect the true water level within the boiler.

Accurate readings are crucial for safe boiler operation, as they help operators monitor water levels and avoid potential hazards. When the gauge glass displays incorrect information, it can mislead operators into believing that the boiler is in a safe operating condition when it may actually be low on water, which poses a risk of overheating and damage to the boiler.