Maintaining your oil tank and its surrounding area ensures smooth delivery and maximises the tank’s lifespan. You are responsible for the upkeep of any oil tanks on your property to protect yourself, your home, and the environment from potential spills or leaks.
Spills and leaks can be very costly to clean up and may contaminate groundwater supplies and building foundations. For ongoing care of your tank, it’s recommended that you contact your local UKIFDA heating oil distributor or an OFTEC-registered engineer if you have concerns about your oil tank or if you need to install a new one. Bunded tanks are the most suitable option for home heating.
Regularly check the condition of your tank for wear and tear, and ensure there is no strong smell of fuel oil. Keeping at least 12 inches of oil in your tank will prevent disturbing the sediment that settles at the base, which could clog your pipes if disturbed.
Ideally, consider installing a remote electronic fuel level gauge to help you monitor your oil levels. Consult your local heating oil distributor or OFTEC-registered engineer for advice on monitoring your oil level.
Fuel in your tank is valuable, so implementing appropriate security measures is essential. While you cannot completely eliminate the risk of theft, several straightforward precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood of your fuel being stolen.
To ensure the safety of your fuel tank, first check that the fuel gauge is installed correctly and securely attached. If your tank has a lid, use appropriate locks to secure it, making sure not to block the vent or breather to prevent damage. For tanks are vent-and-fill types, consider using a special lockable cap at the filling point. Remember to provide the keys or combinations for any locks to your heating oil distributor if you will not be present during deliveries.
Additionally, installing CCTV cameras and low-energy “dusk-to-dawn” security lights nearby can help deter theft.
For further advice on your tank’s maintenance and security, contact your local OFTEC-registered engineer or heating oil supplier.
An OFTEC-registered tank installer will advise you on the best place to locate your heating oil tank to ensure it meets safety standards and building regulations and reduces risk.
Distance from buildings
Your oil tank should be situated in accordance with building regulations, which are designed to protect homeowners from a fire if started nearby. An oil tank needs to be a minimum of 1.8 metres from any openings to buildings (doors, windows or other structures). If this distance is not possible, then a fire barrier can be built between the tank and the hazard.
Drainage and enviroment
Your installer should identify nearby drains, bore holes, or sensitive groundwork areas. Any of these will affect the location of your oil tank – you want to avoid potential problems arising in the future or an illegal oil tank installation.
Stable base
The oil tank should be placed on a stable level base that is at least 300mm bigger in all directions than the tank itself. It should sit on either a 100mm thick concrete slab or on paving slabs that are a minimum of 50mm thick. The foundation should be appropriate for the ground conditions.
Easy access
Consider access to your oil tank and make sure there is enough space for you to get around it to carry out regular checks and space for the oil tanker to fill the tank safely.
You are responsible for maintaining the oil tanks on your property and preventing them from failing. Spills and leaks can be extremely costly to clean up and may contaminate groundwater supplies and building foundations.
If you have concerns about your oil storage tank or are considering installing a new one, please contact your local heating oil supplier or an OFTEC-registered technician.
Regular maintenance helps you:
Oil tank maintenance:
Carry out a thorough check of your oil tank at least every six months, paying particular attention to warning signs of wear and tear that include:
If you notice any of these warning signs, act fast – contact your local fuel supplier or OFTEC-registered technician.
When you have your boiler serviced, have your oil tank inspected at the same time.
Your OFTEC-registered engineer will:
Did you know?
Water build-up in your tank can be stirred up during a fuel delivery and can cause it to break down. If water is detected, seek specialist advice from your local UKIFDA distributor or OFTEC-registered technician about safe removal.
If your OFTEC-registered technician highlights your oil tank as at risk of failure, you will need to replace it with a new one. A modern, well-installed tank ensures:
When installing a new fuel tank, it’s important to consult with a local OFTEC-registered technician or your home heating oil distributor. They can help you choose the most suitable option that provides the best environmental protection against oil leaks and overfilling.
Additionally, make sure your tank is installed in accordance with legal and safety standards and meets your home insurance requirements. It’s essential for the tank to be installed at ground level, and the pipework should be properly protected.
Choosing the right oil tank:
The liquid fuel in your tank is valuable, so you should take appropriate security measures. You can’t totally protect your tank against theft, but a few simple precautions can greatly reduce the chance that your fuel will be stolen.
Secure access points For tanks with a lid, fit suitable locks. If it is of a vent-and-fill type, buy a special lockable cap for the fill point only. Your installation engineer or fuel supplier can advise you.
NEVER lock or block the tank vent/ breather, as this will cause the tank to split and cause further damage.
Don’t forget to provide the keys/combinations of any locks to the delivery company if you won’t be there during any deliveries.
Monitor your levels Monitor your tank regularly. Make sure the fuel gauge is installed correctly and secured to the tank at the top. A remote electronic fuel level gauge can help identify if the level suddenly drops or falls below a quarter full and can be located in the kitchen or utility room.
Position wisely If replacing your tank, position it where it will be more secure. Remember to leave clear access for fuel deliveries and make sure the gauge can be seen.
Consider CCTV A visible CCTV to monitor the tank adds an extra layer of security.
Light up the area Low-energy ‘dusk-till-dawn’ security lights close to the tank should provide sufficient light to deter thieves.
It’s advisable to speak to your home insurance company regarding the type of cover you have and what happens in the event of a leak or overspill. Your insurance firm may also have advice on where to place your oil tank and on security to prevent the theft of oil.
If you have any concerns about your oil storage, speak to an expert.
Contact an OFTEC-registered technician or your local home heating oil supplier for help with:
