What happens when there is too much combustion air introduced into an oil burner fuel mixture?

When there is too much combustion air introduced into an oil burner fuel mixture, the correct outcome is the production of white smoke. This phenomenon occurs because an excessive amount of air can lead to incomplete combustion. The oil does not burn efficiently due to this over-oxygenation, resulting in unburned fuel being carried over into the exhaust. The unburned fuel vaporizes and forms a white, smokey appearance as it exits the burner.

In contrast, black smoke typically indicates a condition where there is insufficient air, leading to incomplete combustion and excess carbon particles being released. Explosive ignition is a risk associated with a highly concentrated fuel-air mixture but is not directly linked to excessive combustion air alone. Carbon buildup leads to soot and can occur in systems operating with insufficient oxygen or improper combustion practices. Thus, the production of white smoke is the most accurate indication of too much combustion air in the oil burner fuel mixture.