Oil Furnace - Test Procedure

Oil Furnaces

Re: Test Procedure / Checkout Steps

1. Check Oil Supply

• If the furnace is running, turn the thermostat off and allow the furnace to cool.
• Turn off power to the furnace.
• Remove the oil supply line from the nozzle assembly.
• Gently bend the supply line to be able to spray oil into a cup.
• Place a jumper across the thermostat input to the controller.
• Re-apply power to the furnace.
  • If the burner does not start, press the reset button on the primary control to reset.
• Allow the furnace to pump oil into a cup for up to 5 seconds (stop by turning off power).
  • Oil stream should start immediately with the pump motor (except newer models with a delay solenoid valve).
  • Oil stream should be continuous and have adequate pressure.
  • Oil stream should be solid red (white foam indicates air).

2. Check Transformer & Electrodes

• TEST TRANSFORMER
• Turn off power to the furnace.
• Un-hook power wires to the ignition transformer.
• Hook-up a "Transformer Tester" to the transformer power wires.
• Test the Transformer.
• TEST ELECTRODES
• Remove the Electrode / Nozzle assembly from the burner.
• Use a well-insulated pair of pliers to hold the Electrode / Nozzle assembly on the transformer.
• Use a jumper wire to Ground the Electrode / Nozzle assembly.
• Power the transformer with the "Transformer Tester".
• Observe the electrodes for a proper spark pattern.

3. Clean Cad Cell

4. Check / Replace Nozzle

• If the nozzle has not been replaced in the past year, it is best to go ahead and install a new nozzle.
• Lift the ignition transformer to expose the electrode/nozzle assembly.
• Remove the "keeper" ring from the electrode/nozzle assembly.
• Note the adjustment position of the nozzle assembly.
• Loosen the positioning screw if necessary.
• Remove the electrode/nozzle assembly.
• Replace the nozzle.
  • Be Aware! When you loosen the nozzle, oil will run out of the assembly.

5. Check Electrode Adjustment

• Use the diagram to the right as a general rule-of-thumb.

6. Check Ignition/Burner

• Re-install the the nozzle assembly in the furnace.
• Lock the nozzle assemble back in the proper position.
• Re-install the locking nut.
• Re-attach the oil line to the nozzle assembly.
• Allow the burner to fire normally.