ugly external oil fired boiler - can I paint it??

[cansu]

For some unknown reason the previous owners decided to install the oil fired boiler in the garden so I have an ugly metal box in the corner of my garden. It stands out. I can't afford to move it and was thinking of painting it a pale green so it looks less obtrusive. Is this safe to do? Can I use ordinary metal paint or do I need something special??

I don't see why not, you paint radiators which get hot. Use an external oil based paint.

I don't know about oil boilers. External gas boilers are generally put in a little cabin or shed (needs a good big door so the case can come off for maintenance access) with frost protection.

Dark colours might be better, as there could be discolouration due to heat.