Check the Oil Level Regularly
Keeping your oil boiler running for as long as possible depends on whether it receives the proper care and maintenance it needs. One simple but crucial step is to regularly check the oil levels in your tank. This easy task can help prevent problems, improve your boiler's performance, and even extend its lifespan.
Low oil levels can affect how well the boiler burns fuel. If the system doesn’t get a steady supply, the oil can be burned less cleanly, which can lead to soot build-up and poor efficiency. This can also increase wear and tear on parts, shortening the life of your boiler.
Regularly checking the oil levels only takes a few minutes but it can make a big difference. Many tanks have gauges that you can read, and some modern systems even have electronic monitors that alert you when levels are low.
Use Good-Quality Heating Oil
High-quality oil burns more cleanly, meaning it leaves less soot and residue behind inside the boiler - reducing the risk of blockages in the burner nozzle and fuel lines. A cleaner system runs more efficiently and also needs fewer repairs and less frequent servicing over time. Less soot build-up also means you have better heat transfer, allowing your boiler to heat your home and water more effectively while using less fuel.
Poor-quality oil can contain higher levels of impurities such as water, sludge, or sediment. These substances can clog filters, damage the fuel pump, and cause the boiler to work harder than necessary to heat your home. Over time, this strain can lead to performance issues, higher running costs, and expensive damage to the internal components. Using low-quality oil can also lead to corrosion inside the tank, which shortens the boiler’s lifespan.
Many suppliers provide premium heating oil, which includes additives that improve the boiler's performance. These additives can help keep the system clean, prevent freezing during cold weather, and extend the lifespan of the oil.
Using a trusted supplier and making sure the oil meets the right standards can help you get the most out of your boiler. Combining high-quality oil with regular servicing ensures your boiler stays in good condition, runs more efficiently, and lasts longer - helping you avoid unnecessary breakdowns and keeping your home warm throughout the year.
Bleed Your Radiators When Needed
Bleeding your radiators can help keep your oil boiler running smoothly and efficiently for longer. Over time, air can become trapped inside the central heating system. When this happens, it stops the hot water from flowing properly through the radiators, leading to cold spots and poor heat distribution.
If your radiators aren't heating up evenly or feel cold at the top but warm at the bottom, it’s likely that air has built up and the radiator needs bleeding. When air is trapped in the system, your boiler has to work harder to try and push the hot water through. This extra strain can reduce the boiler’s efficiency and put more pressure on the pump and heat exchanger.
Bleeding radiators is a simple job that can be done with a radiator key and a cloth. It’s a good idea to check all the radiators in your home every few months or if you notice any changes in heating performance. If you continue to have problems even after bleeding, it can indicate that there's a bigger issue, such as sludge build-up or low system pressure. By bleeding your radiators, you can improve your boiler's heating performance and extend its lifespan.
Clean or Replace the Oil Filter
The oil filter in your boiler keeps the system clean, safe, and efficient by trapping water, dirt and other impurities away from the heating oil before it enters the boiler. Over time, the filter can become blocked or dirty, which can cause a range of issues. Cleaning or replacing the oil filter regularly helps keep your boiler running smoothly for longer.
When the oil filter is clogged, the flow of oil to the burner is reduced, leading to poor combustion and poor fuel efficiency. A blocked filter can also put extra strain on the fuel pump, leading to the components becoming damaged over time.
By cleaning or replacing the oil filter, you allow the oil to flow freely. This helps the burner operate properly and ensures the boiler heats your home and water efficiently. A clean filter also helps prevent soot and other residue from building up inside the boiler, which can reduce the need for repairs and servicing.
Most heating engineers recommend checking the oil filter at least once a year, usually during the boiler’s annual service. However, if the heating oil is stored in outdoor tanks or if the fuel quality is lower, the filter may need to be checked more often.
Looking after the oil filter is a simple way to help your oil boiler last longer, run more efficiently, and avoid sudden breakdowns - keeping your home warm and your heating system in good condition throughout the year.
Oil Fired Cumbria provides reliable oil boiler repair services to ensure your home stays warm. From fixing common issues to full system checks, we can find and repair problems quickly and efficiently.
