What should be done if the low water alarm sounds in a boiler system?

When the low water alarm sounds in a boiler system, securing the fires is an essential safety measure. A low water condition can lead to overheating and potential damage to the boiler, as it may cause the boiler to operate without enough water for proper thermal regulation. If the flames or firing process is not stopped, the boiler can experience catastrophic failure, such as a boiler explosion or severe structural damage.

Securing the fires ensures that no further heating occurs, preventing the temperature from rising and allowing the operator to assess the situation safely. Once the burners are secured, the operator can investigate the cause of the low water level, address any mechanical issues, and safely manage the water supply to restore normal operation.

In contrast, merely increasing the water supply without securing the fires first could exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to a dangerous scenario where a sudden influx of water interacts with still-hot heating surfaces. Similarly, stopping boiler operations without first securing the fires or properly managing the low water condition may not be as effective for immediate safety. Checking the pressure gauge may provide useful information but is not the priority action to safeguard against the immediate risk posed by the low water alarm.