What to Think About When Buying an Oil Furnace Nozzle

The oil furnace nozzle is one of the key components in your oil furnace. A worn, blocked or dirty nozzle will interfere in the operation of the entire furnace. There are several things to consider before you buy a replacement nozzle: nozzle size, spray pattern, the degree of the spray pattern and filtration. When you are shopping for a new nozzle, look for one like your current nozzle. The size of your nozzle should be labled on your furnace and on the nozzle itself. Some nozzles are custom fitted to a particular furnace. If that is the case for your nozzle a certified dealer should be able to point you in the right direction or help you order the correct nozzle for your furnace.
Nozzle Size
The size of the nozzle indicates how many gallons of oil goes through the nozzle in an hour, if the furnace is running continuously. This measurement is indicated by the GPH. For example, if a nozzle has a .80GPH it puts out .80 gallons of oil in one hour. This measurement should be clearly indicated on every nozzle.
Spray Patterns
There are three basic types of spray patterns, each has some variations. Patterns are indicated by different letters on the nozzle. The letters H, NS, PL and A indicate a hollow spray pattern. ES, B, S, P and R show that the nozzle has a solid spray pattern. PLP, SH and SS show that the spray pattern is semi-solid. Q, W and AR all indicate a custom design.
Pattern Degree
The spray patterns of the nozzle are preceded by the degree of the spray pattern. A 85 SS nozzle has an 85 degree semi-solid spray pattern. The spray angle of the nozzle should fit the pattern of the furnace’s burner. That is why it is so important to use the nozzle designed to fit your furnace. Another spray pattern will not have the same results.
Filters
Filters can be very useful in prolonging the life of your furnace’s nozzle. A line filter will prevent many blockages from ruining the nozzle. Some nozzles come with their own filtration. While these systems are helpful in preventing clogs in your furnace, they cannot adequately stop them all. Because of this, it is helpful to check and replace dirty filters before they begin to cause problems. There are several types of filters on the market, be sure that you buy one that is compatible with your furnace or you may end up with more problems down the line. If you have a line filter, you may need to call in a professional, unless you already know your way around your furnace.
Record when you bought the new nozzles. Nozzles should be replaced every year or so to ensure maximum efficiency. Having an accurate record of when you replaced the nozzle will help you remember to purchase a new one before your furnace stops working correct

The oil furnace nozzle is one of the key components in your oil furnace. A worn, blocked or dirty nozzle will interfere in the operation of the entire furnace. There are several things to consider before you buy a replacement nozzle: nozzle size, spray pattern, the degree of the spray pattern and filtration. When you are shopping for a new nozzle, look for one like your current nozzle. The size of your nozzle should be labeled on your furnace and on the nozzle itself. Some nozzles are custom fitted to a particular furnace. If that is the case for your nozzle a certified dealer should be able to point you in the right direction or help you order the correct nozzle for your furnace.

Nozzle Size

The size of the nozzle indicates how many gallons of oil goes through the nozzle in an hour, if the furnace is running continuously. This measurement is indicated by the GPH. For example, if a nozzle has a .80GPH it puts out .80 gallons of oil in one hour. This measurement should be clearly indicated on every nozzle.

Spray Patterns

There are three basic types of spray patterns, each has some variations. Patterns are indicated by different letters on the nozzle. The letters H, NS, PL and A indicate a hollow spray pattern. ES, B, S, P and R show that the nozzle has a solid spray pattern. PLP, SH and SS show that the spray pattern is semi-solid. Q, W and AR all indicate a custom design.

Pattern Degree

The spray patterns of the nozzle are preceded by the degree of the spray pattern. A 85 SS nozzle has an 85 degree semi-solid spray pattern. The spray angle of the nozzle should fit the pattern of the furnace’s burner. That is why it is so important to use the nozzle designed to fit your furnace. Another spray pattern will not have the same results.

Filters

Filters can be very useful in prolonging the life of your furnace’s nozzle. A line filter will prevent many blockages from ruining the nozzle. Some nozzles come with their own filtration. While these systems are helpful in preventing clogs in your furnace, they cannot adequately stop them all. Because of this, it is helpful to check and replace dirty filters before they begin to cause problems. There are several types of filters on the market, be sure that you buy one that is compatible with your furnace or you may end up with more problems down the line. If you have a line filter, you may need to call in a professional, unless you already know your way around your furnace.

Record when you bought the new nozzles. Nozzles should be replaced every year or so to ensure maximum efficiency. Having an accurate record of when you replaced the nozzle will help you remember to purchase a new one before your furnace stops working correctly.