Before lighting off a boiler during a cold startup, what must the operator check first?

Before lighting off a boiler during a cold startup, it is crucial for the operator to check the correct water level. This is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation of the boiler. If the water level is too low, it can lead to overheating and possible damage to the boiler components, as well as a risk of explosion due to steam generation in an insufficient water environment. Conversely, having the appropriate water level helps in effective heat transfer and maintains the correct operation of the boiler.

Ensuring the proper water level is the first priority because it establishes a safe baseline before any ignition occurs. Other checks, such as verifying electric connections, fuel supply, and steam pressure, are indeed important for the overall operation of the boiler; however, they should not precede ensuring that there is sufficient water present to prevent any dangerous condition during the startup process.