Help - Oil run out - problem?

Garetha

I've let our oil level run down too far.:eek:
The boiler failed to light (understandable!)

Will there be a problem when we try to run it after a fuel delivery?

Debt_Free_Chick

Possibly, as you may suck up silt from the bottom of the tank. However, I've never had that problem - there is usual a residual amount in the bottom of the tank and in the pipes. Whilst the flow is not sufficient to light the boiler, it tend to ward off the silt.

Give it a go when you get oil.

Why were you lighting the boiler (just curious)

kenshaz

Probably you will have an air lock ,and you will have to bleed the system,their should be a nipple in the supply pipe from the tank to the burner ,open release until flow starts with no air.
The problem will have happened because you have drawn chunks of air in with the oil,due to the level

jonnyw_2

Sometimes when you run out you will get away with it and the new oil will push through the pipes ok.

If you have an old tank ie metal you are more likely to get silt, rust and even water in your pipes if you let the oil run out. There may be a drain off to get rid of all the muck in the tank and it would be a good time to do it when the tank is empty.

Air is quite a common problem and it can be awkward to get rid of.

You sometimes have to set the boiler to run a couple of times before it fires, i would do this first before trying to bleed it. And if bleeding it doesnt work it will be time to call a plumber.

Some people get a rash from contact with heating oil, it itches like mad.

I would sort this out sooner rather than later because plumbers start getting busy when everyone turns theit central heating on.

ginger_nuts

my boiler has a trip switch which I need to reset if I run out of oil . I have never had an airlock .

gamston

always have to bleed my boiler if i forget to get oil,and it runs out
its easy to do, just need to identifiy the bleed screw,
some are bleed nipples, some are just screws
you may need to check your boiler manual to indentify it
i always open the bleed screw, turn boiler on press reset button, let oil come out until is air free, screw bleed screw up boiler should now run ok
just make sure u have a rug or bowl for oil to drop into

its easy enough to do

Garetha

When the water went cold I was a little concerned - then I decided to ask here.

Wow!! MSE people are so helpful Thanks everyone!

PS Debt_Free_Chick asked

Why were you lighting the boiler (just curious)

I've been running it all summer just for hot water :eek:
- perhaps I should use the immersion heater

Debt_Free_Chick

Garetha wrote:

PS Debt_Free_Chick asked

I've been running it all summer just for hot water :eek:
- perhaps I should use the immersion heater

I was just curious. Often, in an "oil" area one has an Aga ..... and the post 1975 versions can provide hot water. Hence, I don't run my boiler between April & October, but the Aga is on 365 days of the year.

I was just curious, honest Not sure if the immersion would be cheaper or not sorry