Oil burner nozzles are the working end of the burner assembly. If they are not regularly checked and well maintained, the nozzle will malfunction and will not last long. Usually, most parts of the furnace and the nozzle are only checked when there’s a need to service it or carry out repair work, which in most cases is once or twice a year.

Here are four usual issues you might experience with your oil burner nozzle:

Rust

After a while, due to changes in temperature, there maybe a build up of deposit and corrosion. When this happens, it will affect the effectiveness of the burner. This will cause it to get inadequate fuel for firing which will affect it lighting up.

A qualified oil services engineer can check the burner nozzle for any sign of corrosion and try to remove the build up of rust around the head of the nozzle.

Worn out Components

The pipe lines that connect to the furnace nozzle are also susceptible to puncture or rust. These need regular checks to ensure they are not in any way damaged as this causes a loss of fuel intake. The igniter and pilot light are other parts that need to be checked on a regular basis.

Build up of Dirt and Debris

Residue or debris can accumulate near the oil burner nozzle. This build up or residue can cause blockages in other part in the heating system. To keep the system clear of dirt or debris it is imperative to keep every part in the burner clean and corrosion-free. A yearly maintenance plan which includes regular cleaning of the inner parts of the burner is a good way to extend the life of your burner. Always budget for replacing damaged parts before the winter season to make sure your burner functions without fault when you need it.

Bends and Distortion

With time, your burner nozzle can become distorted and start to malfunction. This usually makes the fuel flow irregular. The distortion of the materials in the burner nozzle due to constant heating and cooling can also cause other parts in the system to loosen and move which will affect the overall functionality of the burner.

Regular checks and service of all parts of your oil burner furnace is the most effective way of keeping it up and running. A trained oil service professional should carry out a regular checkup of the complete system on at least a yearly basis. This should help in keeping the furnace in good shape, ensure its durability, and give you peace of mind from any trouble that may arise from the oil burner nozzle and other burner parts.