What color should the flame be on my natural gas water heater?

Know what the color your water heater flame is telling you means:

Blue – Gas burners burn blue if the ratio of fuel to air is correct.

Orange – Orange flame is usually dust or dirt being burnt.

Yellow – Air is not getting to the flame, this needs to be inspected immediately.

An adequate supply of combustion and ventilating air must be available without obstructions. If there is an insufficient amount of air, the products of combustion will re-circulate, which will contaminate the surrounding air causing possible health risks.

Soot is a black powdery or flaky substance consisting mainly of amorphous carbon, produced by the incomplete burning of organic matter.” Sooting is caused by the water heater not burning properly.

If you have checked the flame color yourself and need a second set of eyes, feel free to send us a picture of the flame. And please remember to always have a licensed plumber service your water heater.

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