In most areas, the homeowner’s oil supplier includes annually oil burner tune-ups in the price paid for the oil. Therefore, if you are already paying for this service, then go ahead and schedule your appointment. However, if you are the approximately 1% who do not receive this service in the price of your oil, then go ahead and pick up a screwdriver, or call a professional.
Keep in mind that taking apart an oil furnace is a lot easier than putting one back together, as this requires both skill and caution. To do this you will require basic mechanical skills and the ability to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not attempt to “cut corners,” as this could prove both dangerous and expensive.
You will need the following materials and tools:
Electric-motor oil, pan filled with either sand, or cat litter, then depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, you will need paint thinner, or kerosene. In addition, you will also need, oil filter, nozzle (depending again on the furnace and manufacturer’s instructions), and replacement electrodes (only if the existing ones are damaged.) You will also require a screwdriver, shop vacuum with brush attachment, open-ended wrenches, metal file, toothbrush, measuring tape.
NOTE: Make sure that you place all parts that you remove in a safe place where you will be able to locate them later.
Step 1—Replacing the Oil Filter:
The oil filter keeps dirt and debris from entering the furnace fuel and should be replaced once a year.
Begin by first closing the oil supply valve. This is usually located at the bottom of the oil tank. Next, fill a disposable pan about half way with cat litter, and then place it under the filter. Unscrew the bolt at the top of the filter and remove the canister. Allow the oil to drain into the pan. Then loosen the bolt on top of the canister and disassemble the canister. Carefully remove the filter inside the canister, and then replace it with a new one. You also want to remove and replace the gasket around the lip of the canister. Reassemble the canister, and then reattach the canister.
When you replace the filter, you permit air to enter the fuel line, which you must bleed out. To do this, loosen the bleeder valve on top of the filter by turning it counterclockwise, and then reopen the oil supply valve. Air will rush out as oil begins to flow into the canister. Once oil start coming out of the bleeder-valve, you will need to close the valve.