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Flame distortion and flame color testFlame distortion and flame color test: The flame distortion test is performed on forced air furnaces only. When the heater is turned on, but before the blower comes on, the inspector notes the flame. After the blower comes on the flame should remain much the same. Should the flame bend or move excessively (flutter) there may be a crack or hole in the heat exchanger. The flame movement is often caused by the blower air entering the heat exchanger combustion chamber through the hole or crack. If a problem exists with regard to flame flutter it is recommended you contact the gas supply company for a free check up. Flame color refers to the actual color of the flame. The flame color is expected to be blue for propane and natural gas and yellow in oil burning equipment. Coal burning equipment flame color is not covered in this section. Pilots and burners should be inspected from time to time to see how well they are burning. A pilot or burner with black soot around it may indicate it is burning without enough air. A yellow gas flame or a flame that is lifting off the burner tops may be getting too much air. There are several reasons why burners may not be burning properly. Often the inspector will note that a vent cap on the roof is sooted. This usually indicates that the flame of an appliance is improper. Occasionally insulation or some other material within the appliance will fall against the air regulator of the burner and restrict air flow. No attempt by the property owner to rectify this condition is suggested. It is possible the gas company servicing the building will come out and adjust the burners. There is usually no charge. If for some reason they will not come out, contact a heating contractor for assistance.
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