Ignition Fault Leads to Small Fire and Explosion in an Un-Serviced Residential Heating Boiler
Incident Investigation
Ignition Fault Leads to Small Fire and Explosion in an Un-Serviced Residential Heating Boiler
October 16, 2023
Gas
Reference Number:
II-1616967-2023 (#40199)
Location: Prince George
Regulated industry sector: Gas - Natural gas system
Incident Overview
A small fire started inside a wall-hung residential heating boiler after an explosion inside of the boiler’s heat exchanger. An ignition fault caused a delayed ignition explosion in the combustion chamber, resulting in blown-out burner sight glass, a bent heat exchanger lid, melted igniter wiring, and burnt insulation. The boiler had not been serviced or had the required maintenance since it’s installation in 2017, which likely caused the explosion and associated boiler damage.