If you cannot easily locate the reset button on your furnace, consult its user instructions. This part should be described or clearly marked on diagrams.
When your furnace is running, a lack of oil spray on the inside of the furnace is another indication that you need to bleed the fuel line. [2] X Research source
¼ in (. 64 cm) flexible tubing Container (like a coffee can or a liter soda bottle, to catch oil) Oil absorbent material (like sand, non-clumping clay, or cat litter) Rag (to wipe up excess oil) Suitable wrench (generally 3/8th’s size)
When the auto-shut off for the reset button is engaged, you don’t need to turn the main On/Off toggle switch to “Off. “[3] X Research source
You should find fuel lines leading to and from the fuel pump. The pump is oftentimes located on the left side of the burner unit. [4] X Research source
Choose an oversized rather than undersized container. Oil that overflows your container can make a big mess. Use a clean, dry container for bleeding oil from the pump of your furnace. This way, you’ll be able to return and re-use the oil after it is drained. Draining the fuel line for your furnace can be messy work. You may want to wear a pair of gloves while bleeding oil.
During this process you might hear a gurgling noise from the tubing. This is completely natural.
The force of oil and air running through the tubing can cause it to move. You or a helper may want to hold the tubing and container to prevent accidental spills. It may be necessary to use the reset button to turn on the furnace. Follow your furnace’s user instructions for best results. Opening the bleeder valve more or less will increase or decrease the rate at which the oil drains. Adjust this as necessary for your situation. The bleeder screw may have to be completely removed to get a good flow. Shut the furnace off once the flow has started. Replace the screw and restart furnace when through bleeding.
In some cases, especially if the pump is far from the oil tank, you may need to bleed your line into your container several times until all the air is removed from it. If there is no discharge from the bleeder, there may be a problem with the pump, a clog in the filter, or damage somewhere in the fuel line preventing it from draining. Fuel that has been drained into a clean, dry container can be returned to the fuel tank after it has been drained. [7] X Research source
If the furnace is operating properly, you should be able to view an orange glow or fire through the inspection port located on the front of the furnace. If your furnace does not relight, drain the line again as described. You may have to bleed the line several times before it begins working again.
Tubing for your furnace can be purchased at most hardware stores and home centers. When replacing tubing, your furnace should be turned off. Oil remaining in tubing can make a big mess when being replaced. Lay newspaper, a drop cloth, and/or a container beneath tubing you’re changing to prevent a mess. [8] X Research source
Carefully loosen the 1⁄4 inch (0. 6 cm) bolt on the top of the filter with an appropriate wrench until you hear air escape. Stop loosening when you hear air. Let the air drain. When oil begins to bubble around the bolt, tighten it closed to the position you found it. [9] X Research source
Replacement kits generally come with new seals and gaskets for the bolts of the filter. Use these new parts for the best results. When reassembling your filter, it’s especially important to make sure that all the fixtures and fastenings are snug and tight. [10] X Research source
