Regular Oil Tank checks
Your oil is a valuable commodity and you need to look after it.
When should I check my oil storage?
We recommend you have a look at your tank at least once a month and every time before you place an order to have your it filled to make sure it isn’t damaged or leaking.
What should I look for?
You should look for anything on or around your tank installation that could indicate a leak is likely to happen, or oil has been lost to the environment. You should:
- make sure that the tank installation isn’t becoming over grown with vegetation that would hide the condition of the tank
- check the tank base or supports for cracking or subsidence
- ensure the tank has a working contents gauge; if this has a valve make sure it’s closed
- check all visible pipework, valves and filters for damage and signs of leaks, such as dampness or staining, especially around joints
- check vegetation around the tank for signs of die-back
- check secondary containment (tank bunds) for liquid or rubbish
- check that drip trays for remote fill pipes haven’t got any oil or water in them, check the waste oil information for how to dispose of any liquid
Cracking on a plastic tank
If you have a plastic tank you also need to check for:
- whitening, cracking and splits in the plastic
- bulging or deformation of the tank profile
Rust and oil staining on a metal tank
If you have a metal tank you also need to check for:
- signs of rust, pitting and blistering of paint
- oil dampness on seams and welds
If you see anything you’re worried about or that’s changed since you last looked you should take advice from a qualified oil heating professional. A plastic oil tank can’t be repaired; if it’s starting to show signs that it’s deteriorating you are likely to need a replacement tank.
If your oil use suddenly increases unexpectedly, you should check your tank and pipework immediately for leaks. Tank monitoring devices are available that give early warning of a rapid drop in oil level.
Annual checks
Make sure your oil storage tanks and oil supply pipes are checked by a competent person at least annually; usually at the same time as your annual boiler service.
Where can I get further advice?
For general advice on the installation of heating oil storage tanks and oil tank maintenance, contact a competent person. Competent Person Scheme (CPS) operators typically offer a local technician search facility online or by phone. CPS operators can be found online at the Competent Persons Register.
