When Do I Have To Bleed My Oil Furnace?

Imagine waking up on a chilly morning, trying to turn on the heat, and finding that nothing happens. If you have an oil furnace, trapped air in the fuel line could be why it won’t start. This can happen after running out of oil or after maintenance work, and the fix might be as simple as bleeding the furnace to restore fuel flow.

At Binsky Home Service, we know how frustrating heating issues can be, especially in the cold winters of Central New Jersey. Our team is here to help with honest pricing and expert care. But before you call in a pro, let’s go over when your furnace might need bleeding and whether it’s something you can handle yourself.

What Is Bleeding an Oil Furnace?

If your oil furnace doesn’t start, air trapped in the fuel line could block the oil flow. Bleeding the furnace means removing that air so fuel can reach the burner, allowing your system to run correctly again.

So, how do you know if it’s time to bleed your furnace? Watch for these signs:

• Your furnace won’t turn on, even after refilling the oil tank.
• It starts but quickly shuts off again.
• You hear gurgling or sputtering noises from the system.

Bleeding your furnace can get it back up and running, keeping your home warm and comfortable. But is it something you should do yourself? Let’s find out.

How To Bleed & Restart an Oil Furnace

If your oil furnace doesn’t start, bleeding the fuel line can help remove trapped air and get it running again. While the process is simple, following the steps carefully is essential if you want to avoid spills or damage. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Turn off the furnace: Switch off the power to your furnace to ensure safety before starting.
2. Locate the bleed valve: Find the small valve on the fuel pump, usually near the oil filter.
3. Place a container under the valve: Use a small cup or pan to catch excess oil as it bleeds out.
4. Loosen the valve: Using a wrench, slowly turn the valve counterclockwise to open it.
5. Press the reset button: Hold down the furnace’s reset button to start the fuel pump. You should see oil and air bubbles coming out of the valve.
6. Wait for a steady stream of oil: Once the oil runs smoothly without bubbles, the air is fully bled out.
7. Tighten the valve: Carefully close the valve while the oil is still flowing.
8. Restart the furnace: Turn the power back on and check if the system runs normally.

If the furnace still won’t start or you notice leaks or unusual noises, it’s best to call in a professional. At Binsky Home Service, our expert technicians can quickly diagnose and fix any heating issue, ensuring your home stays warm and cozy on even the coldest nights.

Choose Binsky Home Service for Oil Furnace Bleeding

If your oil furnace needs bleeding or won’t start, Binsky Home Service is here to help. With over 85 years of experience, our family-owned and -operated team provides honest pricing, five-star service, and 24/7 availability to keep your home warm and toasty.

Don’t let heating problems leave you shivering in Central New Jersey. Contact Binsky Home to schedule your furnace services today.