What is a consequence of not returning condensate to the boiler?

Not returning condensate to the boiler results in decreased system efficiency for several reasons. When steam is generated and used for heating or other processes, it condenses back into water. This condensate, which is essentially a pre-heated liquid, contains valuable thermal energy that can significantly enhance the overall efficiency of the steam system when it is returned.

If the condensate is not returned and instead is lost, the boiler must work harder to convert fresh water into steam, requiring more energy and fuel. This additional energy consumption directly leads to higher operational costs and a reduced performance of the entire system. Furthermore, the loss of this heat increases the demand for fuel, thus diminishing fuel efficiency as well.

In contrast, returning the condensate allows the system to make better use of the heat already generated, leading to improved thermal efficiency and overall system performance. Therefore, not returning condensate results in a clear decline in efficiency within the steam system.