Your oil burner has went out! Its the middle of the winter. What should you do? These things are bound to happen. Quite frankly, these devices last a long time but like any machine they have a shelf life and will need to be replaced eventually. Nevertheless, here are some quick diagnostic tips you can try that may make it possible for you to avoid an expensive HVAC repairman’s house call.
This is an easy fix. There is a good chance that the reason your burner is not coming is because the reset button (usually red) was tripped. When this happen the whole system will shut down. Its not a bad thing. It means the safety systems in place are doing their job. Push the tiny red button. You cannot miss it. There is a good chance everything will start right up. If it happens again and again though do not keep pushing the reset button. That is an indication that something more serious is going on.
Seems like a silly question but you would not believe how many homeowners do not check their supply of heating oil on a regular basis. Your holding tank could either be totally empty or low enough to the point where the fuel pump cannot pump any oil into its system.
Speaking on your fuel pump this is the third item you should check. Is it running? Your oil burner will not work if there is no fuel getting to the system. You might need a new pump. Try lightly hitting it and seeing if it comes on.
The filter is made to clean out any extra debris or condensation for your heating oil before it clogs up your burner. It needs to be changed once a year. If you have not done so try this. Perhaps there is a blockage and no oil has been able to get through.
The nozzle attached to the end of the burner in which fuel is sprayed out of can be blocked very easily. There is a screen on one end of it but that does not trap everything it should. This device, though seemingly insignificant, needs to be replaced once a year. It could be the reason that your oil burner is sputtering or not working like it should.
These are five easy troubleshooting tips that your typical homeowner can check himself. There are many other reasons that your oil burner may not be working or not working as efficiently as its designed. Please visit this website if you need service. Its designed to cover everything related to oil burners and waste oil heaters.
Related posts: