Many people use heating oil in furnaces to combat the winter weather. If your equipment breaks down, your home could become uncomfortably cold. Luckily, many problems are easy to address without calling a professional. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you stay cozy all season.

3 Problems Your Oil Furnace May Face

1. Odd Noises 

Your oil furnace shouldn’t make loud noises. Air in the fuel lines could cause a knocking sound. This problem may also happen if you run out of heating oil. You can bleed the lines through the bleeder valve to remove the trapped air, which should resolve the issue.

Rumbling could indicate that the gas burner needs to be cleaned, as grime buildup creates the sound. To prevent this, replace the filter at the beginning of the season, as a clogged screen restricts airflow.

2. Increased Fuel Consumption

If the furnace is consuming more heating oil than usual, it might be time to have the entire system cleaned. Grime buildup places strain on the mechanical components, forcing the system to burn more energy to function.

To improve the furnace’s efficiency, lubricate the blower fan with a nondetergent oil.

3. Unexpected Shutdowns 

If you discover the furnace shuts down without prompting, it might be low on heating oil. To determine whether it’s time to refill, check the reading in the tank.

If the filter is clogged, the system could also overheat and shut down before finishing a cycle. Changing the filter could prevent these performance problems.

If you need a heating oil refill, contact the professionals at State Fuel Company in Rochester, NY. They have been a reliable source for home heating oil since 1935. When technicians drop off your order, they can also relight the burner flame if necessary. Learn more about how they help on their website or call (585) 247-2380 to schedule an oil delivery.