The National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) has released a pair of practical field tools designed to help liquid heating fuel technicians improve service quality, strengthen troubleshooting skills, and promote consistent maintenance practices.

The new resources include:

• Combustion Analysis Reference Chart – A quick-reference guide that helps technicians interpret combustion test results and identify corrective actions based on readings such as O₂, CO₂, excess air, draft, stack temperature, smoke, and carbon monoxide. An interactive web version is available here.

• Oil Burner Tune-Up Flow Chart – A step-by-step maintenance guide that walks technicians through the annual service process, from customer interview and system inspection through combustion testing, safety checks, documentation, and final verification.

Both of these tools are available to download and interactive web applications.

The tools were developed to complement NORA’s technician training programs and technical resources while providing practical support for technicians in the field. The charts are designed for use by experienced service professionals, new technicians entering the trade, vocational education programs, and instructors delivering NORA certification training.

“Technicians are expected to diagnose increasingly sophisticated heating equipment while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency,” said Robert O’Brien, NORA’s Director of Education. “These new tools provide a clear, visual approach to combustion analysis, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting that can help technicians work more effectively and confidently.”

The new charts build upon the technical principles presented throughout NORA’s Technician Manual and Learning Resource Center, including proper combustion testing, annual maintenance procedures, and systematic service diagnostics. NORA training materials emphasize that preventive maintenance remains one of the most important services performed by heating professionals, contributing to safety, efficiency, reliability, and cleanliness.

A mobile training initiative from the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA), in partnership with state associations in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio, is helping close a critical skills gap in the Midwest. By bringing a fully equipped, hands-on classroom directly to technicians, the program is making high-quality liquid heating training more accessible in regions where it has traditionally been difficult to obtain.

The approach is already showing results. Nearly 30 technicians attended the first session, gaining practical experience with oil-fired systems while building connections with fuel marketers and industry peers. Beyond technical training, the program is strengthening the workforce needed to support rebate programs, equipment upgrades, and the transition to renewable liquid fuels.

With plans to expand in 2026, the mobile classroom model is emerging as a scalable solution—helping contractors grow, improving service for homeowners, and supporting the long-term stability of liquid fuel heating markets in underserved regions.

NORA instructor Ron Mannio demonstrates proper liquid fuel heating combustion service through hands-on training.

As the Eastern Energy Expo celebrates its tenth year, NORA will continue to have strong educational & technical presence at this year’s event at Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT.

The National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) is the industry’s leading source for technical education, research, and advancement of liquid heating fuels. At Eastern Energy Expo 2026, NORA will highlight the latest developments in renewable liquid fuels, equipment performance, and real-world system optimization.

Through its nationally recognized training and certification programs, NORA equips technicians with the skills needed to service modern heating systems efficiently and safely. Attendees can learn more about hands-on training opportunities, building science integration, and best practices that improve system performance and customer outcomes.

Don’t Miss Keynote Wednesday

The Opportunities and Challenges Between Liquid Fuels
& Electric Heat Pumps

This panel discussion explores the strengths and limitations of both renewable liquid heating fuels and electric source heat pumps. This Keynote presentation will provide a balanced, practical perspective on where each technology performs best for the consumer and the challenges ahead with the ebbs and flows of the energy markets. Moderated by NORA President, Michael Devine.

Be sure to register for the NORA Technical & Business Track Programs

• 100% Renewable Fuels Study.
  How Renewable Diesel/Biodiesel Blends Performed These Past Two Winters
• Winter-Ready Fuel Storage: Proactive Strategies for Outside Tanks
• Advanced Burner Troubleshooting
• Bioheat® Tech Tips

Come by to Say Hello & See What’s Happening at NORA

As one of the 20 plus exhibitors at the Eastern Energy Expo Trade Show, NORA will be showing live-fire demonstrations of biodiesel and renewable diesel in its outdoor exhibit OD8 as well as its Education & Training Booh, #474.

The Eastern Energy Expo is the largest energy and indoor comfort event in the Northeast. You can find more about the NORA sessions, the entire Eastern Energy Expo program, the trade show and registration at the Eastern Energy Expo website.