What can excessive ash buildup in a fuel oil burner lead to?

Excessive ash buildup in a fuel oil burner can indeed lead to flame instability and reduced efficiency. When ash accumulates, it can obstruct the burner nozzles, disrupting the precise flow of fuel and air required for optimal combustion. This disruption can cause the flame to become erratic, leading to an unstable burn. Furthermore, the presence of ash can lead to incomplete combustion, which means that the fuel is not being used as efficiently as possible. As a result, there is not only a decrease in combustion efficiency but also potential increases in emissions and overall operational costs. Recognizing and managing ash buildup is crucial for maintaining the performance and longevity of the burner.