If water is visible in the boiler site glass, what action should the operator take?

• A. Increase feedwater flow
• B. Shut it down
• C. Open the blowdown valve
• D. Inspect for leaks

Answer: (B)

Seeing water in the boiler sight glass means the water level is higher than safe. When the level is too high, carryover can occur and steam quality suffers, potentially causing damage to the steam system. The safest, immediate action is to shut the boiler down to stop heat input and pressure, allowing the water level to drop back to a safe range. After shutdown, you can investigate and correct the cause, such as a faulty level control or an overly open feedwater valve.

Increasing feedwater would worsen the high level. Opening the blowdown valve could lower the level but is a corrective step that should follow a safe shutdown and careful control, not as the first action. Inspecting for leaks is important but does not address the immediate high-water condition.