Worcester oil boiler problem

[marksi]

I have a Worcester oil boiler. It's about 15 years old but has been serviced regularly and hasn't given any problems recently. Had the oil pump replaced about 2 years ago. Was working fine Wednesday but didn't fire up yesterday, manually started it with the button on the front but it only ran for about 15 seconds before stopping, at which point the button wouldn't start it again.

Phoned A Man and he immediately suggested on the phone that it would likely be the burner and for Worcester boilers they were expensive. I was a little suspicious that he suggested this straight away, but he came out today as he was the only one who could come out before the weekend.

He checked there was oil getting to it (there was) and removed the burner, cleaned round it with a rag and put it back in. Now it's working again. He only charged me £30 but he suggests that it will likely stop again very soon and the burner needs replaced.

I don't really want to spend money on the boiler as I plan to change to gas in the next year or so.

Does it seem to others that the burner does indeed need replaced, or could I manage to keep it going in some way to avoid spending money on something I'm going to replace next year anyway?

Thanks for your help in advance.
Mark.

EDIT Now there's black sooty crap coming out of the vent so have turned it off.

 

[Burnerman]

Which model boiler is it? These burners are simple, basic and easy to maintain - and parts are readily available. John

 

[marksi]

Which model boiler is it? These burners are simple, basic and easy to maintain - and parts are readily available. John

It's an AMQ.

Mate's dad who is a gas engineer has recommended a guy who is coming in the morning. Should have phoned him yesterday instead of getting the cowboy.

 

[Boilerman2]

I thought your boiler was REGULALY Serviced with NO PROBLEMS? has the engineer who has done this been abducted by aliens? smells fishy to me why hasn't he been called to sort it? the muppet that wants to fit a new burner (£400-00) is pulling a fast one

 

[marksi]

I thought your boiler was REGULALY Serviced with NO PROBLEMS? has the engineer who has done this been abducted by aliens? smells fishy to me why hasn't he been called to sort it? the muppet that wants to fit a new burner (£400-00) is pulling a fast one

It has been. Unfortunately when I phoned the companies I've used before they said they couldn't come until next week. It was last serviced about a year ago, so it's due a service but it's not like no one has been near it for years...

 

[Boilerman2]

Well you are right, we are turning new customers away at the moment most people are very busy this time of year, but whatever you do do not let the muppet who wants to fit a new burner anywhere near your boiler!!
I wish you a speedy boiler recovery!!