What is Combustion Analysis?
Combustion Analysis is the process of measuring and evaluating the gases produced during the combustion (burning) of a fuel to determine how efficiently and safely a combustion appliance is operating.
It is commonly performed on equipment such as boilers, furnaces, water heaters, generators, and industrial burners using a combustion analyzer.
What a Combustion Analysis Measures
A combustion analyzer typically measures:
- Oxygen - Indicates the amount of excess air in the combusion process.
- Carbon Monoxide - A dangerous gas that can indicate incomplete combustion.
- Carbon Dioxide - Helps determine combustion efficiency.
- Flue Gas Temperature - Measures the temperature of exhause gases leaving the appliance.
- Combustion Efficiency - Calculates how effectively fuel is being converted into heat.
- Draft or Pressure - Ensures proper venting of combustion gases.
Why Combustion Analysis is Important
- Improves fuel efficiency and reduces operating costs.
- Helps identify equipment that is out of adjustment.
- Detects unsafe conditions, such as elevated carbon monoxide levels.
- Reduces emissions and environmental impact.
- Verifies compliance with manufacturer specifications and safety standards.
In simple terms: Combustion analysis is a diagnostic test that evaluates how well a fuel-burning appliance is operating by analysis its exhaust gases, helping ensure the equipment is safe, efficient, and properly tuned.
City Requirements
The City of Minneapolis requires a heating, ventilation, and cooling performance safety check for rental properties once equipment has been in service for 10 years. The combustion analysis test must be performed by a licensed journeyman/master heating installer and a report filed with the city for each HVAC unit in your rental building. Major Mechanical has licensed journeymen/master's on staff that can perform these tests for you. We will also submit all forms to the City of Minneapolis to make this a seamless and efficient process for your facility.
If you would like more information on our Preventative Maintenance, RPZ & Backflow Prevention Testing, CO Sensor Testing, or Combustion Analysis programs, please reach out to our Service Department at 763-898-7041 or service@majormech.com.