What should be done if an oil burner with porcelain electrodes cannot be cleaned white?

In cases where an oil burner is equipped with porcelain electrodes that cannot be cleaned to a white state, replacing the electrodes is the most appropriate solution. Porcelain electrodes are designed to be a specific color when clean, as this indicates that they are functioning properly and effectively igniting the oil. If they cannot be restored to this condition despite cleaning efforts, it often suggests that they have either become too soiled or have accumulated deposits that cleaning cannot adequately remove.

Replacing the electrodes ensures that the burner operates efficiently and safely. New electrodes will provide better ignition performance, leading to improved combustion and reduced emissions. It's critical for the efficiency of the burner and the overall system to maintain clean ignition components, as dirty or damaged electrodes can lead to poor combustion, increased soot production, and other operational issues that can affect the heating system.

Other options, such as replacing the entire burner or cleaning the electrodes with a solvent, may not address the underlying issue of electrode integrity and performance. Inspecting the oil tank could be relevant for fuel quality or contamination issues but does not directly solve the problem with the electrodes themselves. Therefore, focusing on the replacement of the electrodes is the most effective course of action in this situation.