With temperatures steadily dropping, you’ll soon need to turn on your furnace to keep your home warm and cozy. However, waiting until the last minute to use your oil heater is not advised. If something goes wrong, you could find yourself without adequate heat when you need it the most. Now is the perfect time to make sure your oil heater is ready for the winter, so consider this helpful guide below to learn how you can make the necessary preparations. 

3 Ways to Get Your Oil Heater Ready for Winter

1. Change the Filter

Swapping out old air filters for fresh ones is a simple HVAC maintenance step that is often overlooked. You should change them at least once every quarter, but ideally, new filters should be in place once every 30 days. This step keeps pet hair, dander, dust, and other allergens from circulating through the air inside your home. Changing the filter also allows for optimum airflow to and from your heating system and prevents airborne debris from damaging HVAC components. 

2. Check the Tank Levels

Though some households have regular oil deliveries during the winter months, others order fuel when their reserves get low. Regardless if you intend to have scheduled deliveries or not, you’ll need to check your oil tank levels before adding fuel at the beginning of the season. Do not assume you have enough. It is necessary to prevent the fuel levels from dropping below a quarter of a tank because the sludge that settles at the bottom can get pumped into the fuel line and cause damaging obstructions in the equipment.

3. Clean the Nozzle

The oil heater nozzle is used for turning the oil into a fine spray before feeding it into the combustion area or fire chamber. Over time, this component can get clogged from dust and residual oil, which can leave the oil heater unable to turn on or heat the house efficiently. To keep your system running smoothly, clean the nozzle before using the system for the first time at the beginning of the season. If it is too worn down, you may need a replacement. 

This winter, you can count on the professionals at Thomaston Oil to keep your furnace in its optimal condition all season long. For over 30 years, Litchfield County, CT’s go-to HVAC contractor has provided residents with quality services at competitive prices. Whether you need emergency heating and cooling repairs, a furnace replacement, or a convenient oil delivery, their skilled technicians will get the job done quickly. Call (860) 283-4878 to speak with a helpful team member about your oil heater needs or visit them online today.