Oil Boiler FAQs

An oil central heating system works in a similar way to its gas-powered counterpart, using an oil-fired boiler to heat water, which provides the central heating via radiators and hot water through the taps in your home.

The main difference between the two is that you'll need to have your oil supply delivered and stored in a tank. Oil is a more efficient fuel than gas, so you'll get a good return on every unit of energy.

If your oil boiler fails to work, don't reach for the phone straight away. Some simple checks could save you money and solve the problem.

1. Check to see if you have sufficient oil in the burner.
   
   
2. Check the tank as your oil level indicator may be faulty.
   
   
3. Are any of the oil valves or taps turned off?
   
   
4. Has the fire valve been accidentally activated? Has it turned off the oil?
   
   
5. If the boiler keeps tripping when you hit to reset button, make sure you have allowed the burner to rest for at least 30 minutes before hitting the reset button.

If you have checked all of the above then ring us on 01795 842 291.

If there is no power then please check the following before calling us:

1. Has the main fuse blown?
   
   
2. Have you had a power cut? Does the timer need resetting?
   
   
3. Is the timer/ programmer on and working?
   
   
4. Is the room thermostat calling for heat?
   
   
5. Is the cylinder stat calling for heat?
   
   
6. Is it heating the water?

Checking the following may help us to diagnose the problem over the telephone, however, in the majority of cases we are happy to visit it, even if it means changing the fuse for you.

There are many reasons to have your boiler serviced, particularly if you haven't done so for years and assume that everything is working well:

1. Safety - checking for flue gasses
   
   
2. To get it working at maximum efficiency; heat efficiency saves money and we aim to ensure a minimum of 98% efficiency of all of our serviced boilers
   
   
3. Longevity - keeping your boiler running for longer
   
   
4. Leak prevention - fixing a leak would be more costly than an annual service

Ring us today to arrange your annual service on 01795 842291.

Not using your boiler for long periods of time can lead to complications when you go to start it again. It is like leaving a car in the garage for months and then not being able to start it without jump leads.

If you run your boiler every month for a short period it will keep things working and give your heat circulating pump a workout to prevent it from getting stuck.

You will also be able to identify any problems you may have with your boiler before the cold winter sets in and you need your boiler working efficiently.

Most of domestic heating oil boilers run on Kerosene, C2, 28secs fuel which is clear with a yellow tint. Some oil boilers run on Gas Oil – 35secs fuel – red, but these are rare.

Some modern boilers may run on bio fuel. Again, please contact us for advice.

If in doubt please call us and we will be pleased to advise.

Your oil boiler should be serviced annually.

Many people notice problems at the end of a period inactivity such as at the end of the summer, so towards the end of the summer would be a good time.

Our busiest periods are during the winter months so it is probably best to avoid these times, as a service will need to be scheduled and it could be a few weeks before we can visit you.

You will also want to ensure that your boiler is serviced before it is in full use for months at a time.

If you would like us to remind you when your annual service is due then please let us know and we will ring or write to you in advance of the service being due.