Oil Furnace Cleaning Guide
To keep your oil furnace running properly, annual maintenance is recommended with periodic checkups throughout the heating season. Preparing for the cooler winter months in the fall is a good time to check the furnace, perform any necessary repairs and clean or replace filters. Does this Spark an idea?
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Checklist
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The oil fuel filter keeps the fuel clear of impurities and generally needs to be replaced annually. Check it periodically throughout the heating season and replace it again if necessary. The burner motor is susceptible to dust and oil buildup and should be cleaned by wiping away excess oil and greasy dirt. Use a vacuum to clean away any loose dust and dirt. Perform general inspection of the furnace's electrical system, the burner mounting plate and the exhaust stack.
Maintenance Panel
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Many furnaces, regardless of whether they are gas, propane or oil, will have a panel listing routine cleaning suggestions. Find and consult this service panel and follow the suggested maintenance procedures. For some cleaning tasks a professional furnace cleaner is warranted.
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Forced-Air Filters
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All furnaces have forced-air filters, which filter and clean the air flowing through the furnace and the ductwork. Ideally, replace these filters every year to maintain clean air flowing through your house. Some of these types of filters are available with a HEPA system to remove impurities from the air in addition to dust particles.
Ductwork
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Cleaning and repairing the ductwork throughout the house is an important part in keeping your oil furnace operating at top efficiency. Perform a visual inspection of the ductwork to determine whether any repairs or replacement is necessary. Hiring a professional to check the interior of the ductwork is an option.
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