Furnaces fueled with heating oil and kerosene need just as much upkeep as other major appliances in your home. Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep the equipment safe and functional. Still, even with proper care, meeting the demands of heating your home throughout winter could lead to mechanical malfunctions. Below are common performance glitches you should know about and promptly address. 

3 Problems You Might Encounter With an Oil Furnace

1. Strange Fumes Seep From the Furnace

If you smell unusual or powerful odors coming from the furnace, call a repair specialist immediately for help. If the nozzle is loose, it could release fumes that cause the stench. A broken or dirty heat exchanger could also cause this issue. The fumes from burning kerosene and other fuels could be toxic and cause dizziness or nausea, so have the family leave while the problem is investigated. 

2. Equipment Constantly Turns On & Off

If equipment shifts from off to on repeatedly without prompting, the short-cycling could be caused by a dirty filter. When the screen is covered in grime, air can’t reach the heat exchanger. The furnace overheats and turns off as a result. It will then turn back on once it cools. Check the air filter once a month and replace as needed to prevent this problem.

3. Fuel Consumption Is Incredibly High

If the furnace goes through large quantities of heating oil or kerosene but your level of usage hasn’t changed, it might be time to schedule a cleaning. When components are dirty, the appliance must work harder to function properly. This drains fuel and causes an increase in home heating costs. Warm air could also seep through gaps in ductwork, causing equipment to burn more to compensate for the loss.

If you own an oil furnace, Norwich Discount Oil has high-quality fuel to power the appliance. For over two decades, the Norwich, CT-based company has supplied residents in New London and southern Windham counties with high-quality kerosene and heating oil to improve home comfort. These experts also offer tips to keep energy costs low. To find out about kerosene prices and schedule oil delivery, call (860) 886-5508. Visit the company online to learn more about available discounts.