Oil Furnace

Re: Won't Ignite

You arrive to find the flame safeguard control locked-out. You reset it and the burner ignites and burns properly, but after about 30 seconds it locks-out again.

CHECKOUT:

1. Check Oil Flow 

• 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.
    • Still doesn't attempt to start = Bad Primary Control or Bad Cad Cell ⇒ Disconnect the Cad Cell wires and re-try.
• Allow the furnace to pump oil for up to 5 seconds (stop by turning off power).
  • Oil stream should start immediately with the pump motor.
  • Oil stream should be continuous and have adequate pressure.
    • Oil Pressure Inconsistent = Stripped Pump Coupling or Clogged Oil Filter ⇒ Check Pump Coupling and replace oil filter then recheck.
  • Oil stream should be solid red (white foam indicates air).
    • Air in Oil ⇒ Check for leaking seals at the oil filter.

2. Check Electrode Adjustment

• Remove the nozzle assembly from the burner.

3. Check Ignition Transformer

• Method 1: Transformer Tester
• Method 2: Arc Test

4. Replace Nozzle

• If the nozzle hasn't been replaced for the season, replace the oil nozzle.

5. Test Ignition

• Re-connect the fuel line to the nozzle assembly.
• Initiate a call for heat.
  • If the burner does not start, press the reset button on the primary control to reset.
• Ensure that the oil ignites without hesitation.
  • Delayed Ignition = Bad Nozzle, Bad/Mis-Aligned Electrodes or Weak Ignition Transformer.