When is a low water cutoff required on a hot water boiler?

A low water cutoff is required on a hot water boiler because it is an essential safety device designed to prevent the boiler from operating when there isn't enough water present. Without adequate water levels, a boiler can overheat, which can lead to significant damage or even catastrophic failures, such as an explosion or structural damage to the boiler itself.

In hot water boilers, especially those that operate under pressure, maintaining the correct water level is crucial for safe operation. The low water cutoff ensures that when water levels fall below a certain point, the boiler will automatically shut down, thus preventing the risk associated with overheating and ensuring the system operates within safe parameters.

This requirement is applicable at all times, regardless of the season or the specific application of the boiler, making it a universal safety provision in hot water boiler systems.