With the recent volatility of oil prices, many homeowners are electing to switch to natural gas or propane, leading to a “burner conversion frenzy,” says Field Controls. In response, the company has published a new report on issues related to safe oil-to-gas burner conversion.

While the obvious first step in the process is to change the burner and the fuel supply, Field Controls recommends two additional steps to ensure a safer, faster installation.

Normally, a gas-fired appliance would call for the installation of a draft hood in place of the existing barometric draft control. The Field Report recommends replacing the existing draft control with a double-acting draft control and a blocked-vent thermal safety switch. “This system is not only easier and faster to install, it is also safer and more efficient,” the company says.

The double acting draft control keeps the over-fire draft consistent, enhancing burner efficiency. The control is designed to respond to changes in barometric pressure, updrafts and downdrafts. The blocked vent switch detects flue spillage and automatically shuts the burner down until the blockage can be resolved.

“The entire system is easier to install, compared to retrofitting a draft hood, saving the installer and the homeowner precious time and money,” according to the report.

For a copy of The Field Report or for more information on Field Controls, visit www.fieldcontrols.com or call 252/522-3031.