If your home is off-grid, your heating oil tank is a critical part of your heating system, especially during the colder months. Without maintenance, oil leaks, rust and other potential problems could get missed and cause serious issues in the future. Neglecting your oil tank also means you are more like to unexpectedly run out of oil.
Regular maintenance of your heating fuel tank will ensure your system continues to operate efficiently, prevents costly repairs or safety hazards and extends the life of your tank.
Some maintenance, such as regular general checks, you can do yourself, while other jobs should be carried out by a qualified professional.
While this advice is for heating oil tanks, much of it would also apply to other types of fuel storage tanks.
So how do you maintain your heating fuel tank for optimal performance?
General maintenance
The general maintenance and checks you should do yourself regularly are:
- Check for corrosion, rust and cracks on the tank body and pipework
- Check the supporting structure is in a safe condition
- Check for damp patches which could indicate a leak
- Check the oil is not contaminated by water
- Check there are no unpleasant smells coming from the tank
If you notice anything abnormal when you do your checks, you should arrange for a fuel tank specialist to carry out a more detailed and thorough inspection. Some problems could indicate that your tank is no longer safe and has reached the end of its life.
Servicing
Your oil tank should be serviced once a year by a registered technician.
Oil tank servicing is often overlooked or forgotten, but regular servicing of your oil tank can extend its working life and avoid dangerous leaks and spills.
Cleaning
Over time, sediment, sludge and impurities can accumulate in your oil tank. If they are not dealt with, these contaminants can obstruct filters, clog fuel lines and affect the performance of your heating system.
Regular cleaning of your oil tank keeps your heating system operating efficiently, cuts the risk of system breakdowns and can extend the lifespan of your equipment. This will also help avoid costly repairs in future.
Your heating oil tank should be cleaned at least once every three to five years. Oil tank cleaning should only be carried out by a professional, qualified technician. The technician will change the oil filter, remove debris and water and restore your oil tank to work as efficiently and effectively as possible.
The best time to clean your heating oil tank is before the heating season begins. During the warmer months, the tank is likely to have a lower oil level which makes it easier to clean.
Protect against corrosion
Corrosion can be a problem for some steel tanks, particularly older tanks which are outside and exposed to the elements. To prevent corrosion, apply a protective coating and install a tank cover to protect it from rain, snow and ice.
Water which enters the tank through condensation or leaks can lead to corrosion. Removal of any water should be part of your annual service by a registered technician.
Use additives
Additives can be mixed with your heating oil to help prevent sludge formation and prevent corrosion of your oil tank.
Keep records
Keep records of all inspections, cleaning and maintenance of your tank by professionals. This documentation will help ensure you never forget to get your tank serviced or cleaned and can be a very useful reference document in the event of any problems or insurance claims.
Maintaining your heating oil storage tank is essential for ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your heating system. Regular inspections, cleaning and proactive maintenance can prevent costly repairs and environmental damage.
Maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be consistent. By following these guidelines, you can keep your heating system running smoothly and your home warm and safe throughout the year.
But don’t forget that at some point your heating oil tank will need to be replaced. A damaged oil tank can’t safely contain the oil and poses a safety and environmental threat.
Here at Tanks for Everything, our tanks are built to face the harshest weather conditions and prevent leaks, with an expected 20 to 25 years of active lifespan.
