- Confirm the furnace is turned off and disconnected from its power source.
- Ensure the building is properly ventilated to prevent gas buildup.
2. Locate the Oil Tank:
- Find the oil tank, typically located outside the building or in the basement.
3. Check the Oil Supply:
- Open the oil tank cap. Visually inspect the oil level. If it's below the indicated minimum level, you need to refill the tank.
4. Refill the Oil Tank:
- If necessary, refill the oil tank using a hose connected to an appropriate oil source. Fill the tank until the oil level is above the minimum indicated. Close the tank cap.
5. Check for Leaks:
- Thoroughly inspect your oil line, filter, and any other connections for any potential leaks. Address any leaks before proceeding.
6. Purge the Oil Line:
- Switch on the furnace power. Leave the burner switch turned off for now.
- Press and hold the oil pump purge button (typically a red button) for 10 seconds to purge the air out of the oil line. You might hear a humming or clicking noise.
7. Power Up the Furnace:
- Turn the furnace switch to the "ON" position. Most furnaces start working by themselves at this point.
8. Monitor the Furnace's Behavior:
- Observe the furnace's operation. Listen for any unusual noises or smells indicative of a malfunction. If you notice something unusual, immediately turn off the furnace and consult a professional technician.
9. Check the Oil Gauge:
- As the furnace runs, watch the oil gauge. It should initially read "full" and gradually start decreasing as the furnace consumes oil.
10. Verify Proper Furnace Operation:
- Once the oil gauge indicates an appropriately low level, you should hear a "click" sound, indicating the burner has ignited and is now generating heat.
- Let the furnace run for a while and ensure the heat is distributed throughout the rooms as intended.
11. Monitor the Oil Level:
- Over the next few days, monitor the oil level. If the furnace runs out of oil again quickly, you may need to troubleshoot potential problems or consult a qualified HVAC professional.
Note: If you're dealing with a complex HVAC system or have concerns about any of these steps, don't hesitate to involve a heating technician to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your furnace.
