Tip of the Month

What is a “puff back”?

A “puff back” is a term used primarily in the insurance and restoration industry to describe a malfunction heating system which blows back some burned and unburned fuel back into the living areas of the house. In most cases, it is related to an oil burning furnace that misfires or “burps”.

The “puff back” manifests itself as a light grey residue which adheres to almost any surface. Primarily, however, it will first adhere to colder areas of walls and ceilings (in front of the studs), on vinyl windows, refrigerator gaskets, plastic materials, blinds, shades, and eventually furniture.

“Puff backs” are not limited to oil burners. Gas furnaces, down drafts in chimney’s and wood/pellet stoves all can cause serious damage.

Obviously the best way to avoid potential for a “puff back” is performing regular maintenance on your heating systems and flues.

In the event of a “puff back”, Soil-Away can come in quickly, work with your insurance agent and adjuster to clean you contents and living area to bring them back to pre-loss condition.

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What is a "puff-back"?  (105 KB)