Oil Furnace Keeps Shutting Off And Needs To Be Reset . The motor may need to be reset because of an overload. Just by cleaning off the sensor, the furnace will stay on.
The next time it shuts off, do not reset it by turning the switch off & back on. The furnace switch (located on or near the furnace, looks like a common light switch) is turned off and simply needs to be turned on, though the furnace might have. Frequently, however, a furnace shutdown is accumulated soot and rattling are signs that the draft regulator needs to be adjusted.
Oil burners really need annual service, like in july is a good time.
For example, an oversized furnace will heat the home too quickly, causing it to turn off and on too. Unless your thermostat just needs batteries, you will need to contact a professional to either replace any old wiring or relocate your thermostat to a more appropriate location. I live in a small town in canada where the power sometimes goes off in winter for a few hours. If your furnace keeps shutting off, it could be due to low airflow.