Oil valves are used to provide on-off control of the flow of oil to the oil burner. These are normally closed solenoid valves that open when energized and close immediately when deenergized. They are variously referred to as solenoid oil valves, magnetic oil valves, or oil burner valves and are available in either immediate-discharge or delayed-discharge models.
An immediate-discharge oil valve discharges oil as soon as it is energized. A delayed-discharge valve is equipped with an integral thermistor to delay the valve opening for about 3 to 15 seconds (the length of time will vary depending on the manufacturer). This delay allows the burner fan to reach operating speed and establish sufficient draft before the oil is discharged.
A solenoid oil valve will make an audible click when it is opening and closing properly. If the valve fails to open after the room thermostat calls for heat, the following conditions may be responsible:
• Inadequate fuel pressure available at the valve
• An obstructed bleed line
• No voltage indicated at valve
Check the voltage at the coil lead terminals against the voltage shown in the nameplate. Also check the inlet pressure against the rating on the nameplate. If none of these conditions is causing the problem, the failure of the valve to open is probably due to a malfunctioning solenoid coil. The position of the coil is shown in the exploded view of the valve in Figure 5-76. The steps for replacing the solenoid are as follows:
1. Remove the nut on top of the valve by turning it counterclockwise.
2. Remove the powerhead assembly from the spindle.
3. Disconnect and remove the solenoid coil.
4. Connect the replacement coil and reassemble.
Examples of delayed-discharge valves are shown in Figures 5-77 and 5-78. In both valves, the timing delay is governed by a thermistor attached to the solenoid coil. In these valves, the timing delay will vary with ambient temperature, voltage level, and other factors during normal operation. If the timing is significantly off, it may be necessary to replace the thermistor. Because the thermistor is attached to the solenoid coil, the coil must also be replaced in order to replace the thermistor.
Delayed valve opening can also be obtained by using an electronic time delay wired in series with the oil valve (see Figure 5-79). Unlike the thermistor, the timing of this device is not affected by ambient temperature. On a call for heat, the valve opening is delayed for approximately 5 seconds.
