Furnace maintenance helps keep a home’s heating system efficient. Changing the heating oil filter once a year should be at the top of your to-do list. This screen traps dirt and other particles in the fuel to prevent contaminants from sticking to the furnace’s components and causing damage. While you should always follow the steps outlined by the manufacturer, use the following guide for some general instructions.

How to Change a Furnace’s Heating Oil Filter

1. Access the Unit

Before you begin, turn off the circuit supplying electricity to the furnace and flip the shutoff valve to prevent heating oil from leaking.

Look for bolts at the base of the supply line. Attached to that area is a canister containing the filter. Unscrew the bolts to slide out the base. 

2. Install the New Filter

Once you’ve accessed the canister base, use a toothbrush to remove sludge buildup from the crevices.

Next, unscrew the old filter cartridge in the canister and secure the new one and an O-ring in its place. The O-ring creates a tight seal between the filter and the canister to prevent leaks. 

3. Restore Power

After you put the base back in place, slightly loosen the bleeder screw at the top of the filter casing. Taking this step helps air escape from the filter.

Turn the supply valve back on to let heating oil flow to the unit. When there are no more bubbles in the liquid, tighten the bleeder screw. Next, turn the circuit to the furnace back on.

To keep your home warm this fall and winter, trust State Fuel Company in Rochester, NY. Residents of Monroe County have counted on this family-owned and -operated company for fuel since 1939. They provide high-quality heating oil and diesel at competitive rates. Take a look at convenient delivery options online, and call (585) 247-2380 to place an order.