How To Service An Oil Boiler

Before we begin looking at how an oil boiler is serviced, we need to stress that maintaining an oil boiler is not a DIY job. Anyone other than a professional should never attempt to fix an issue with their oil boiler. This is potentially extremely dangerous. We implore all homeowners to leave the servicing to our expert team.

We want to discuss in this blog the process we adopt when servicing an oil boiler while expanding on the issues that can typically affect your boiler. Let's get started.

Why do I need to service my boiler?

Oil serves as a crucial fuel source. However, it's essential to be mindful of the potential for oil contamination, which can significantly compromise the efficiency and reliability of oil systems, including oil boilers.

Contamination concerns arise from scenarios where water infiltrates the oil tank, causing oil to solidify and obstruct vital nozzles. Furthermore, the transformation of water into frozen states can lead to obstructions within the oil conduits, ultimately resulting in the shutdown of the system.

Maintaining optimal conditions necessitates an annual servicing regimen and consistent maintenance efforts. These measures are pivotal in preserving the seamless functionality of oil-based systems and pre-empting unforeseen operational disruptions. 

How often should I have my residential boiler serviced

We highly recommend having your oil boiler serviced at least once a year.

Why do I require an annual service

In contrast to most gas boilers, servicing an oil boiler necessitates hands-on cleaning and frequent replacement of components with limited lifespans. The associated expenses typically vary depending on whether a part replacement is necessary.

What's involved in a Boilerman Oil Boiler Service?

Throughout the servicing process, the boilerman plumber conducts a thorough visual assessment of the tank, oil line, and other components within the oil-fired system. We will then implement remedial or maintenance tasks identified during the inspection. We also clean and inspect the necessary oil components. 

What common faults does Boilerman identify during a boiler service

Unfortunately, oil is susceptible to fuel contamination, which can trigger a reaction that affects the efficiency and dependability of the system. At the very least, the boiler could experience lockouts due to minor issues (these faults can be averted through an annual service), necessitating a plumber's intervention to reset it. Clean combustion gradually accumulates dirt, making a yearly service imperative to uphold cleanliness and forestall service calls.

The below outlines some of the most common issues we encounter during an oil boiler service.

Common Issue #1: Water entering the tank

Water accompanies the oil as it moves to the boiler, and this water can bring along particles from the tank. As a result, the oil can solidify around the nozzle. This can lead to lockouts, clogging due to soot deposits, and poor heat transfer.

Common Issue #2: Water freezing in the oil line

This can occur when the boiler isn't on. Cold temperatures can lead to oil freezing and a complete boiler breakdown.

Common Issue #3: Clogged Nozzles

Inevitably oil boilers suffer accumulations over their nozzles. This leads to a drop in performance and a complete breakdown of the heating system if not addressed.

Common Issue #4: Photocell Soot Deposits  

The photocell is what detects if the boiler is lit. Suppose soot has accumulated, leading to the boiler shutting itself on and off and becoming inefficient.

Common issue #5: Electrode Soot Deposit 

If soot is allowed to cover the electrode, this can affect the boiler's ability to turn on.

Common issue #6: Filthy Condense trap

This is when debris and excessive condensation gather on the trap. This will lead to the boiler breaking down completely.

During a Boilerman service, we check and clean all these components and undertake any required remedial action.

If you have any more questions on how the Boilerman services a boiler, please get in touch with us today. To schedule your annual oil boiler service, please get in touch with us by phone or email.