Puff Backs, how to prevent them, and what to do if they happen.

1/27/2023 (Permalink)

First, it’s important to know what a puff back is. A puff back occurs when an oil burner doesn’t ignite right away and as consequence fumes build up in the furnace. The fumes cause an explosion inside the burner chamber, which vaporizes and expels soot throughout a home or business, covering walls, baseboards, furniture, and floors in oily toxic soot.

A few ways you can help prevent puff backs include:

• Make sure you get regular services for all oil burning appliances.
• Get thorough cleaning and inspections annually.
• Pay attention to any odors or noises from your furnace room.
• Keep your eye out for debris such as soot, and rust flakes.
• Install a carbon Monoxide detector.
• Check for oil leaks.

We can’t always prevent things like puff back from happening but if they do here’s some things you might be able to do to help:

• Document it (especially if you plan to report it to your insurance)
• Contact a repair service to have it repaired.
• Contact SERVPRO of University Place for a thorough cleaning.

We hope this helps you either prevent or have some ease of mind if one may occur. If you ever need assistance with a puff back be sure to call your friends at SERVPRO of University Place/Lakewood at 253-896-3000.