Method of operating a fuel heating system

A method 400 of operating a fuel heating system is provided. The method includes performing 404 pre-ignition diagnostic checks on a plurality of components of the fuel heating system, wherein at least one inlet damper and at least one outlet damper of an exhaust flow circuit are each in a closed position. The method also includes purging 414 the fuel heating system of unburned hydrocarbons. The method further includes operating 424 the fuel heating system in a normal operating condition. The method yet further includes operating 426 the fuel heating system in a cool down condition, wherein the at least one inlet damper is in the closed position.