What is one effect of low water levels in a boiler?

Low water levels in a boiler can result in potential overheating of the boiler components. When the water level is below the safe operating range, there is inadequate cooling for the boiler tubes and other components that are designed to operate under consistent water coverage. As a result, the temperatures of those surfaces can rise significantly, leading to overheating.

This overheating can cause serious damage, including burn-through of the boiler tubes, which can create safety hazards and necessitate costly repairs. Effectively, maintaining proper water levels is crucial for ensuring that heat is absorbed by the water and steam production is optimal. This also emphasizes the importance of water level monitoring and control systems to prevent such hazardous conditions within the boiler system.

In contrast, the other options focus on conditions that cannot accurately describe the consequences of low water levels. Increased efficiency and safe operation would not occur under such conditions, while reduced pressure is not a direct consequence of low water levels, as the pressure in a boiler typically depends on other operational factors.