What advantage does an auxiliary boiler provide during peak loads?

An auxiliary boiler is designed to assist the main boiler, especially during peak load periods when the demand for steam or hot water significantly increases. The primary advantage provided by an auxiliary boiler is its ability to supply additional steam when it is most needed. This capability helps to ensure that the system can handle sudden spikes in demand without stress on the main boiler, which may not have the capacity to meet the increased load on its own.

Using an auxiliary boiler allows the facility to maintain consistent performance and reliability. It also enables the main boiler to operate more efficiently, as it can run within its optimal range rather than being forced to produce excess steam, which could lead to reduced efficiency and potential operational issues.

The other options do not reflect the primary function of an auxiliary boiler. For example, decreasing energy efficiency would be counterproductive, and while limiting maintenance schedules may be a related consideration, it's not the main purpose of an auxiliary boiler. Additionally, minimizing the size of the main boiler is a consideration in overall plant design but does not directly relate to the peak load support provided by an auxiliary boiler.