SMCICT

Maintaining an oil-fired heating system requires more work then with gas or electric. You maintain the furnace itself about the same,
but in addition you need to keep a close eye on your fuel tank and
fuel lines.
[ Ideally, an oil system operates best if you keep the fuel tank full, even during summer. Condensation can form on the walls of an empty or partially empty tank. This water has no place to go but to
r the bottom of the tank, since oil and water don’t mix. Sediment also collects along the tank bottom. To avoid heating problems, drain water and sediment from your tank at the start of each heating season. Open the drain and let it run until you see only clean oil, with no dirt or water-bubbles in it.
The fuel supply needs a filter where the fuel line runs from the bottom of the tank. Sometimes it’s a tossup, though, which is worse—sediment in the oil from the tank, or air and fibers in the oil from the filter. With your furnace technician, explore the best oilstorage method for your particular furnace.
Leaks in oil lines waste fuel, and let air into the fuel mixture prematurely. Tighten loose joints.