Kentucky Boiler Practice Exam

Increased water usage or pressure drops in the system serve as common indicators of steam leaks in a boiler system because steam that escapes from the system typically results in a drop in overall pressure within the boiler. When steam leaks occur, the system requires additional water to compensate for the lost steam, which leads to an increase in water usage.

Monitoring water usage and pressure levels helps operators identify potential leaks early, allowing for timely repairs. This awareness is crucial because untreated steam leaks can lead to reduced efficiency, increased operational costs, and potential safety hazards. Therefore, noting changes in water usage and pressure is a key part of maintaining boiler efficiency and safety in operations.