What aspect of chimney function is critical for safety in oil burning applications?

The draft capacity of a chimney is essential for safety in oil burning applications because it directly impacts the removal of combustion gases from the system. A strong draft ensures that smoke, carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases are efficiently expelled from the home, reducing the risk of backdrafts that can lead to dangerous situations, such as carbon monoxide poisoning. Adequate draft is crucial for the proper functioning of heating equipment, as it influences the combustion efficiency and overall performance. Without sufficient draft capacity, the system may not operate optimally, posing health hazards and potential fire risks. Therefore, maintaining proper draft is foundational to both operational safety and efficiency in oil burning systems.