How can the low water fuel cutoff be tested?

The correct method to test the low water fuel cutoff is by allowing the water level to drop. This test is critical because the low water fuel cutoff is designed to automatically shut off the fuel supply to the boiler when the water level falls below a safe operating level. By simulating a low water condition, the system can be evaluated to ensure that it functions correctly and activates as intended when the water level drops.

When performing this test, it is important to monitor the system closely. If the device operates properly, it will interrupt the fuel supply, preventing potential damage to the boiler from overheating due to inadequate water coverage. This safeguard is essential for safe boiler operation and helps prevent catastrophic failures.

Other options don’t effectively test the low water cutoff's functionality. Increasing the water level does not simulate the conditions under which the cutoff would need to activate. Adjusting the pressure settings may affect other aspects of boiler operation but does not directly assess the performance of the low water fuel cutoff. Inspecting the valve directly is a maintenance activity but does not constitute a functional test of the automatic operation of the fuel cutoff under low water conditions.