Oil burner nozzles are small but essential parts of oil furnaces. They spray a fine mist of oil into the combustion chamber, where it is ignited by a spark or a flame. Over time, the nozzles can get clogged with soot, dirt, or carbon deposits, which can affect the efficiency and performance of the furnace. Cleaning the oil burner nozzles regularly can help prevent this problem and extend the life of the furnace. Here are the steps to clean oil burner nozzles:
Step 1: Turn Off the Furnace and Disconnect the Power
Before you start cleaning the oil burner nozzles, you need to make sure the furnace is turned off and disconnected from the power source. This is to prevent any accidents or injuries from electric shocks or burns. You can turn off the furnace by using the switch on the unit or the breaker panel. You can also unplug the power cord from the outlet or the furnace itself.
Step 2: Remove the Oil Burner Gun and the Nozzle
The oil burner gun is the part that holds the nozzle and connects to the fuel line. You need to remove the oil burner gun from the furnace by loosening the screws or bolts that secure it. Then, you need to remove the nozzle from the oil burner gun by twisting it counterclockwise. You may need to use a pair of pliers or a wrench to do this, but be careful not to damage the nozzle.
Step 3: Soak the Nozzle in Kerosene
Once you have removed the nozzle, you need to soak it in a metal container filled with kerosene. Kerosene is a type of fuel that can dissolve the oil and dirt that clog the nozzle. You need to submerge the nozzle completely in the kerosene and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This will help loosen the debris and make it easier to clean.
Step 4: Wipe and Blow the Nozzle
After soaking the nozzle, you need to wipe it with a lint-free cloth to remove any excess kerosene and dirt. Then, you need to use an air compressor or a can of compressed air to blow pressurized air into the nozzle and the filter. The filter is a small mesh screen that is attached to the end of the nozzle. The pressurized air will help dislodge any remaining debris and clear the nozzle opening.
Step 5: Reinstall the Nozzle and the Oil Burner Gun
Once the nozzle is clean and dry, you need to reinstall it to the oil burner gun by twisting it clockwise. Make sure the nozzle is tight and secure, but not over-tightened. Then, you need to reinstall the oil burner gun to the furnace by reversing the steps you took to remove it. Make sure the screws or bolts are tight and the fuel line is connected properly.
Step 6: Test the Furnace
After reinstalling the nozzle and the oil burner gun, you need to test the furnace to make sure it is working properly. You can do this by turning on the furnace and observing the flame and the smoke. The flame should be blue and steady, and the smoke should be minimal and clear. If the flame is yellow or flickering, or the smoke is black or thick, you may need to adjust the nozzle or the air-fuel ratio. You can also use a combustion analyzer to measure the efficiency and emissions of the furnace
