Abstract: The ignition sequence of a conventional oil-fired furnace is altered to achieve significant fuel economy. In response to a thermostatic call for heat, a short two to five second delay interval ensues during which the ignition electrode pair are energized to cause an arc which associates with the nozzle surface to burn off unburned fuel debris and, in effect, clean the nozzle, electrode tips and warm the spark. At the termination of this short interval, the oil pump and air blower are energized to achieve combustion of oil mist and air within an association ignition chamber.