A puffback is the result of your oil burner misfiring. This misfire creates smoke and soot from incomplete combustion in the oil burner. In other words, the oil did not burn properly and was released into the air. The smoke and soot residue can be harmful to your health.
Soot and Smoke are microscopic particles that are negatively charged. The negatively charged smoke particles naturally want to bond to surfaces. In particular cold surfaces and plastics are where the soot residue can be extremely noticeable. These small particles of oily soot and smoke residue are naturally sticky and greasy. As such, the smoke residue can be very difficult to clean. If the smoke and soot residue is cleaned improperly this can cause secondary damage.
Professional restoration contractors use specifically designed HEPA vacuums, cleaning solutions, and PPE to clean all the surfaces in your home or business. The cleaning process is comprehensive and most often includes cleaning walls, ceilings, and personal belongings such as dishes, furniture, and clothing. Each surface can require different cleaning techniques and procedures. For instance, upholstered furniture is cleaned using different methodologies than a hardwood floor.
There can be varying degrees of damage caused by puffbacks. Sometimes very little residue that is barely noticeable and sometimes very heavy smoke damage. When the smoke damage is heavy the walls and ceilings will require painting after they are cleaned.
Smoke and soot can cause discoloration and permanent damage very quickly. Therefore, it’s important to call a restoration professional immediately to help clean and mitigate the damages. H2O Damage is available 24/7 to respond to all your emergencies.