Oil Burner Tune-Up Benefits, Tips, And More
One of the questions that I am frequently asked is: “Why do I need to have my oil burner tuned-up on a regular basis?”. I give this answer every time – “ Because it saves you money and ensures your comfort!”. It is that simple. Here it is in a nutshell.
Five Oil Burner Tune-Up Benefits
Your oil burner tune-up provides you with these 5 primary benefits:
- Energy efficiency
- Proper heat transfer and distribution
- Improved efficiency level
- Monitoring and reducing carbon monoxide
- Address and prevent leaks
Oil Furnace Tune-Up Procedure
Our technician goes over your furnace – top to bottom. Each technician conducts a complete inspection of your entire oil furnace performing a whole array of inspections and checks.
- The furnace is thoroughly cleaned and brushed to loosen soot followed by a system vacuum of loose debris
- Oil is replaced and the tank topped off.
- Your technician will adjust pressures
- Check heat exchanger
- Perform maintenance of the combustion chamber (remove soot, check for corrosion and rust)
- Inspect flue pipe, chimney, and exhaust flue for blockages or leaks
- Check air filter and oil filter
- Inspect oil nozzle
- Inspect oil tanks
- Check ventilation
- Test for air leakage
- Check for backdrafting
- Inspect furnace heat exchanger
DIY Oil Furnace Maintenance Tips For Homeowners
There are many checks that the homeowner can perform to help troubleshoot any problems. If you chose to DIY – remember to power down your furnace turning off all electricity and stopping flow of oil.
These DIY tasks include:
- Wipe down and clean your furnace exterior
- Make an external check for rust and corrosion
- Inspect for obvious signs of oil and gas leaks
- Use a wire brush to loosen soot and scale inside the combustion chamber
- Inspect the flues and dampers in order to maintain proper draft
- Check for signs of condensation (staining, smell)
- Drain the furnace of any accumulated water or sludge
- Examine the dampers to maintain primary and secondary air zones
FAQs
In our 50+ years of experience in installing and maintaining oil furnaces, we have heard a lot of questions. Here are 3 of the most frequently asked ones when it comes to oil!
How Much Does an Oil Furnace Maintenance Cost?
While the cost of an oil furnace maintenance will vary based on the size of the home and the amount of ductwork that may be needed and if this is a clean service or if repairs are needed, the cost range is $100 to $500.
How Long Does It Take for a Tune-up?
A comprehensive oil furnace tune up involves time for inspection as well as time for maintenance and/or repairs. But generally speaking, your oil furnace tune up should take between an hour and a half and two hours. The need for extensive repairs could add to the time frame.
How Often Should I Get an Oil Burner Tune-up?
The easiest way to make sure that your furnace is getting the service that it needs is to put it on a maintenance schedule with your service provider. But if you prefer to make your own schedule, your oil furnace should be inspected and maintained every year at the end of the heating season. The build up of soot and other combustible residue will affect your system’s efficiency over time.
If you are interested in heating oil furnace service in Havertown, PA, give us a call at (610) 446-7877, or click here to contact us online!