How to Clean Oil Furnaces

Cleaning an oil furnace is something that should be done on at least an annual basis. These furnaces are blowing air all through the house, and a good way to make your air cleaner is to start at the source. Oil furnaces tend to get very dirty, but a bit of regular cleaning will go a long way.

Things You'll Need

• Air filter
• Toothbrush
• Vaccum

Instructions

1. Open the furnace panel door, and remove the filer. If it is a temporary filter, it will be made out of fiber mesh and have the size written on the side of the filter. Replace the filter. If it is a permanent filter, there is a special chemical that needs to be sprayed on it. You'll have to check the manufacturer's directions for specifics on cleaning a permanent filter.

2. Remove the panel that covers the filter to get to the fan unit. Unplug the fan unit, and pull it out to get to the blower unit to clean it. Clean the fan blades and areas in between with a toothbrush. Use a vacuum to suck up the mess and dirt afterward. Some blower motors are sealed and need to be lubricated through oil ports.

3. Lubricate the motor. Some motors are permanently sealed and don't need to be oiled. If the motor has covered oil ports, use several drops of 10-weight non-detergent motor oil in each port. Lubricate the blower shaft if it has ports too. If there are grease cups instead of ports, remove the caps to the cups, and fill the cups with bearing lubricant.

Tips & Warnings

• Be very careful dealing with anything electrical. If you are not sure what you are doing, seek help from a professional. Make sure the fan unit is unplugged while you clean it.