When Does My Oil Burner Need Repair

Keeping your oil furnace working properly (and thus warm during the coldest months) requires regular maintenance. How often does an oil furnace need to be serviced? Read on to find out the answer to this question and more. 

 

While most homeowners may not realize it, many things are working to keep you comfortable in your home. These things are not usually considered until they break down and cause discomfort in one way or another.
One of these "things" at work is your home's three, five, and seven layers. Keeping your oil furnace working properly (and thus warm during the coldest months) requires regular maintenance. How often does an oil furnace need to be serviced? Read on to find out the answer to this question and more.  

 

How often does my oil burner need to be serviced?

You should have your oil furnace serviced at least once a year. If the furnace is being used more than average, you will need to schedule routine service every six months. In cold climates or areas with long winters, the furnace may be used more frequently.

 

 

How often should the oil tank filter be changed?

The oil tank filter should be changed once a year. If you hire a professional to service your furnace, they will usually change the oil filter during each scheduled service.
You may occasionally need to change your burner's oil tank filter more frequently. If you notice that your unit is working less efficiently than usual, this may indicate that your oil filter needs to be replaced.

 

Why maintain a consistent service schedule?

There are many reasons to maintain a consistent service schedule. One of the main reasons is efficiency. When a unit is well taken care of, it is better able to do its job.
A well-maintained oil furnace will also cost less to run, saving you money on utility bills throughout the year. Homeowners will get a higher return on their investment because a regularly serviced furnace will also last longer. Furnaces are expensive to replace, so you want to make sure you get the longest life possible.
You are also more likely to remember if regular maintenance is performed.

 

Heavy oil burner

 

How often should I change my furnace filter?

Your furnace filter is responsible for reducing airborne allergens and generally controlling the quality of the air in your home. It will trap dust and other allergens before they have a chance to spread through your home.
How often you should change your furnace filter depends on many factors. Most people can change these filters every three months.
Reasons you need to change filters more often.
If you leave your windows open for long periods of time
If you have pets (especially long-haired ones)
If you have someone in your home with asthma or other respiratory conditions
If someone smokes in your home
If your house is prone to high levels of dust
If one of the above applies to you, please plan to change your furnace filter every two months. If two or more of the above apply to you, you should change your furnace filter monthly.

 

When to call a burner repair specialist

If the furnace stops working, you need to call a professional to look at the problem. A furnace maintenance specialist can run diagnostics to determine the problem. They will tell you if the problem can be fixed or if the oil furnace needs to be replaced.
If the problem can be fixed, the technician may be able to fix it during the diagnostic call. If you need to replace your furnace, it usually can't be done the same day. A furnace specialist can help you find a new unit and install it, as well as dispose of the old one.

Do you have more questions about your home's burners? Contact us today. Our associates will be happy to answer any questions you still have.