Under what condition should an oil burner’s pump be replaced?

An oil burner’s pump should be replaced when it shows signs of wear or leaks because these conditions indicate that the pump is not functioning effectively. Wear can lead to inefficiencies in the pump's operation, resulting in inadequate fuel delivery to the burner. Additionally, leaks can not only cause environmental concerns but can also lead to safety hazards, such as the risk of fire or explosion if oil escapes. Regular maintenance checks often reveal these signs, and timely replacement of a worn or leaking pump ensures the continued safe and efficient operation of the oil burner system.

While strange noises from the pump could indicate a problem, they are not definitive indicators of the need for a pump replacement; instead, they may point to other issues that could potentially be resolved without full replacement. The suggestion to replace the pump once every year does not take into account the specific condition of the pump, leading to unnecessary replacements if the pump is still functional. Lastly, the recommendation to replace the pump when the burner is shut down does not provide a proactive approach to maintenance, as the focus should be on the condition of the pump rather than the operational status of the burner.