What can cause pulsating oil pump pressure and a pulsating fire?

Pulsating oil pump pressure and a pulsating fire can be directly attributed to a partially clogged filter or strainer, or to the presence of an air leak in the system. When a filter or strainer becomes partially obstructed, it restricts the flow of oil, which can create erratic pressure in the pump. This irregular flow causes the oil to be delivered inconsistently to the combustion chamber, resulting in a pulsating fire.

Additionally, an air leak in the oil line can introduce air into the system, disrupting the continuous flow of oil and leading to similar pressure fluctuations. Both scenarios create conditions where the fuel is not delivered at a steady rate, causing instability in the combustion process, which is manifested as a pulsating flame.

Understanding this is crucial for maintaining proper operation in oil heating equipment, as ensuring a consistent fuel supply is key to efficient and safe operation.