Many people are horrified by the thought of a broken boiler or heating system. No heating can mean no hot water, and that shockingly cold morning shower might be the first sign that your heating isn’t working as it should! Taking care of your heating oil system is vital to avoid being left out in the cold.
But if you find the problem early enough, you can avoid that freezing shower alert! By maintaining your heating system, you could also avoid spending money on a costly boiler replacement or paying a nasty call-out fee.
We can help you identify potential issues in your heating system before they lead to an expensive repair or a new boiler. Find out how to take care of your heating system and what warning signs to look out for below!
Tip 1: Keep Up to Date With Your Annual Boiler Services
Getting your boiler serviced every 12 months, preferably in autumn, is very important to ensure it is in optimal working condition for the winter months ahead.
Not only is this a crucial service for system performance and efficiency, but it is also vital for your health. Your heating engineer will carry out checks for Carbon Monoxide around your boiler, identifying any potential gas leaks. Deadly Carbon Monoxide has no smell, colour, or taste, so these checks could save your life!
Tip 2: Know What Warning Signs To Look For Between Services
Because routine servicing is every 12 months by an OFTEC Registered Technician, it is essential to know the tell-tale signs that your boiler needs to be seen by a professional.
You should keep an eye out for any of the following:
- A smell or noise coming from the boiler
- Staining around the boiler
- Black smoke or soot build-up
If the boiler regularly requires a reset
These all indicate that your boiler requires a service sooner rather than later!
Tip 3: Inspect your Tank Regularly
Now that you know what warning signs to look for around your boiler, you must also know what to look out for when inspecting your heating oil tank!
Everyone knows oil and water don’t mix, and water is a common culprit for causing issues in oil heating systems, such as staining or soot build-up.
Damage to your tank makes it easier for water to enter and contaminate your fuel.
Keep an eye out for the following:
- Physical damage to your tank
- Any oil leaks
- Condensation build-up
- Bulging of the plastic
- Water dripping onto the tank (from an overhanging tree branch, for example)
- Corrosion of lids or seals
Tip 4: Monitor Your Oil Levels
An empty tank causes all sorts of problems. These problems include clogged filters and fuel lines, which damage your heating system. A Tank Monitor will help you avoid these problems and alert you when you require a top-up.
If you often run out of heating oil and want someone to take the stress out of ordering, you can take advantage of our Free Automatic Delivery Service. All you have to do is schedule your deliveries in advance, and we will top up your tank on the agreed-upon dates. This is in conjunction with our Budget Payment Plan, which gives you the option to pay for your fuel monthly and avoid lump sums.
We hope this guide helps you maintain your oil heating system and know what warning signs to look out for.