How To Maintain Your Oil Tank: A Guide

It’s important to maintain your heating oil tank to ensure it’s safe and efficient.

Here are our top tips on how to keep on top of your oil tank maintenance:

Make regular inspections

Regular inspections are the most essential part of maintaining your heating oil tank. You should have annual visits from your heating oil boiler engineer who will:

• Check for leaks; even small leaks can lead to significant issues over time, including environmental damage and costly repairs
• Look for rust, corrosion, and any other physical signs of wear and tear
• Test the vent and fill pipes, ensuring that they are clear and in good condition to prevent any blockages or spills

Keep a close eye on your tank level

Running out of oil can damage the heating system and lead to emergency refills, which are often more expensive. Install a tank gauge or use a smart monitor to keep track of your oil levels. We recommend that you place an order once your tank level drops to 1/3 full.

Ensure that the tank area is clean

A clean area around your heating oil tank prevents debris from causing damage or creating fire hazards and allows safe delivery of your heating oil.

• Clear away any leaves, dirt, and other debris
• Trim any vegetation or plants growing near the tank
• Ensure that there is a clear path towards the tank for the delivery driver to access your tank safely

Protect against corrosion

Corrosion is a common issue with heating oil tanks, particularly for those made of steel. To protect against corrosion:

• Apply a protective coating to the outside of the tank.
• Install a moisture barrier between the tank and the ground if it's an outdoor tank.
• Check for water in the tank, as water can cause rust and other damage

Inspect and replace your fuel filter

Fuel filters prevent impurities from entering your heating system. Over time, they can become clogged and will need replacing. Check your filters every six months.

Check and maintain oil lines

Oil lines that connect your tank to your boiler can degrade over time. Ensure they are free from cracks and corrosion and that they are properly insulated to prevent freezing during periods of cold weather.

Proper maintenance of your heating oil tank is not just about extending its life, but also about ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home heating system. Regular inspections, keeping the tank area clean, protecting against corrosion, and monitoring oil levels are all essential steps.

For any specific problems or your annual service, always speak to your boiler engineer.