What is a burner?
The burner is an important component of every gas heating appliance. The burner is a metal component that controls/regulates the flame being produced within that appliance. A burner is essentially a series of small very precise openings that the unburnt gas passes through to where it ignites.
What can happen if a burner is cracked or damaged?
If a gas appliance has a cracked or damaged burner there is a number of safety concerns. Gas can escape through these defected openings which will cause abnormal flame operation. These precise openings have been manufactured to ensure the correct air to fuel mixing ratio is achieved.
If cracked or damaged, the air to fuel ratios can be incorrect which can then cause a carbonizing flame that will produce soot and carbon monoxide.
Example photo of a cracked burner
