PD Plumbing Supplies Publishes Advice On Oil Burner Pumps

My oil burner pump has failed - What next?

One of the main reasons that an oil burner breakdown is pump failure. Sometimes pump failure even occurs in relatively new burners, which comes as a surprise to the customer. Often though, in these cases, the cause of pump failure is contamination by water or dirt. Ingress of water or dirt into the pump will very quickly ruin it. Such contamination also invalidates the warranty. How can you check for contamination? How can contamination be prevented?

How do I know if my pump has been contaminated by water or dirt?

When the pump is opened you will see brown rusty deposits caused by the ingress of water --This will be very obvious. You may also see sludge or other deposits. If there is no evidence of dirt or water then the pump may have experienced a mechanical failure that is under warranty, and it will to be returned and inspected.


How does water get into the pump?

Water may get into the pump along with the oil. This usually happens because water has gotten into the oil tank by means of condensation -- moist air enters the tank from outside and brings water vapour with it. After entering the cooler tank interior, the water vapour forms into water droplets which over time accumulate.

How can I keep my oil supply free from contamination?

• Make sure that the tank has been installed so that it slopes away from oil outlet. This results in any water or dirt contamination accumulating away from the oil supply outlet point.

• Fit a drain point to the bottom of the tank so that any water that accumulates can be removed.

• Keep the tank filled up, especially in warm weather. The fuller the tank is, the less air space there is above the oil. This in turn means that there will be less air and water vapour entering into the tank as it warms up and cool down during the day.

• Fit an inexpensive 'Tank Dryer' to the tank. This absorbs water.

You should also consider getting your oil tank checked for contamination by your oil supply company. Special tools and pastes can accurately indicate the level of water contamination.

If you think that your pump has failed please contact us and we'll assist you. If your are entitled to have the pump replaced under warranty we will help you bring that about. However, if it turns out that contamination is the cause of failure, you know where you stand and you can proceed to remedy the source of the problem.



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