What is the first step in putting a cold boiler on line with other operating boilers?

The first step in putting a cold boiler on line with other operating boilers is to blow down the gauge glass and water column. This step is crucial as it ensures the accuracy of the boiler's water level measurements. The gauge glass provides a visual level indication, and if it is dirty or contains any residual water from a previous operation, it can give false readings.

By blowing down the gauge glass, you eliminate any debris or build-up that could affect its functionality, thereby ensuring that operators can monitor the water level accurately. This is essential for maintaining safe operating conditions as well as for preventing potential issues related to low water levels, which could lead to overheating or even boiler damage.

Following this initial step, other procedures like opening the header valve, starting the burner, and performing a pressure check can be appropriately managed, but they all rely on having accurate information about the boiler's conditions from the very beginning.