What primarily determines the rating of an oil burner?

The rating of an oil burner is primarily determined by its nozzle size. The nozzle size plays a critical role in controlling the flow of oil that is atomized and sprayed into the combustion chamber. This, in turn, influences the efficiency and effectiveness of the combustion process. A properly sized nozzle ensures that the right amount of fuel is delivered for optimal burning, which maximizes heat output and minimizes emissions.

While factors such as fuel type, burner design, and heat output are important, they do not directly dictate the burner’s rating in the way that nozzle size does. The nozzle size must be selected based on the specific requirements of the system and the characteristics of the oil being used, which directly affects combustion quality and efficiency.