How to Monitor an Oil Boiler

Read your owner's manual for inspection tasks specific to your oil boiler. Everyone with an oil burner can perform general monitoring, but your unit may have special situations to look for.

Inspect the air filter monthly for excessive dirt or clogging; refer to your owner's manual for the location of the filter. Get more tips on monitoring the air filter by quizzing your service technician during the next service visit. Replace air filters as necessary.

Monitor the oil blower's motor for buildup of dust or grease; read your owner's manual, if necessary, to locate the motor. Use a hose attached to a vacuum cleaner to clear dust. Use a clean cloth to wipe away grease or dirt.

Check the oil boiler monthly for wires that appear damaged. Look for wires that are bare in spots or cracked but do not touch the wires; doing so could lead to electrical shock. If you see damaged wires, schedule a service visit by a technician.

Check the smoke coming from your chimney once or twice a month during the heating season. Black smoke suggests that the oil burner is not operating efficiently, according to Michigan State. Schedule a service call if you notice black smoke.

Listen to the unit several times during the winter as it goes through a heating cycle. Stand beside the oil burner as someone adjusts the thermostat to start the burner. Become familiar with ordinary sounds the boiler makes as it distributes heat. Knowing sounds the unit should make will help you notice when the boiler is not working properly.