What is a Puff Back?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Puff backs are dangerous and messy! Professional help is needed due the oil mixed in the with the soot creating difficult stains. We can help!

While turning on your heat this winter, it is important to be familiar with the risk of a puff back.

A puff back is a premature explosion inside of a furnace where smoke, fumes, chemicals, and oil are carried out through the heat ducts and pipes instead of the intended heat. Not only is this hazardous and linked with heart disease, cancer, chronic pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, and more – but it can also cause quite the mess. The smoke, fumes, and oil running through the heating ducts during a puff back can cause rooms to become covered in soot and stains. Because the soot has oil in it, it can be extremely difficult to remove.

Reasons why a puff back would happen:

• A gradual buildup of oil inside chambers of the furnace.
• One of the components of the furnace is not working properly.

How to avoid a puff back:

• Proper maintenance and regular attention to your heating system will substantially reduce this risk.

If you do experience a puff back, you will need professional help, and we are ready! Reach out to us at SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester. We can help clean and restore your home or property! Call Danielle 610-506-8919