PREVENTION AND MAINTENANCE
Look after your oil system before small problems grow.
Simple checks, timely servicing and a little knowledge can reduce the chance of a spill. Start with the part of the system you want to understand.
CALM, PRACTICAL PREVENTION
A few minutes of attention can reveal a lot.
Check regularly, record changes and call a competent engineer when something does not look right.
CHOOSE YOUR EQUIPMENT
Look after the whole oil-heating system
The tank is only one part. Pipework, fittings, the boiler and delivery arrangements all deserve attention.
PIPES, VALVES & FITTINGS
BOILER & FILTER
TANK & SURROUNDING GROUND
OIL TANK
Tank checks and care
Inspect the body, supports, bund, lid, gauge and surrounding ground.
BOILER
Boiler maintenance
Keep servicing up to date and investigate repeated lockouts, odours or soot.
PIPEWORK
Pipes, valves and filters
Look for corrosion, damage, poor support, staining and vulnerable routes.
DELIVERY
Oil delivery precautions
Make access clear, check capacity and inspect the system around each delivery.
PROPERTY
Moving into an oil-heated home
Learn the system layout, service history, tank age and emergency shut-off.
REPLACEMENT
Replacing an oil tank
Plan siting, capacity, access, protection, supports and competent installation.
A SIMPLE ROUTINE
Build prevention into the year
A repeatable routine makes it easier to spot changes before they become failures.
01
Look every month
Walk around the tank and visible pipework. Note stains, smells, movement or damage.
02
Check before delivery
Confirm space, access, gauge condition and any changes around the tank.
03
Review each season
Look at vegetation, weather damage, supports, drains and exposed pipework.
04
Service as advised
Use competent people for the boiler, tank, filters and repairs.
05
Keep a record
Photographs and service notes help reveal gradual change and support future decisions.
WARNING SIGNS
Know when to stop and investigate
Do not wait for visible oil on the ground if the system is already giving you clues.
Changes to the tank, its fittings or the surrounding ground deserve attention.
TANK BODY
Cracks, bulging or corrosion
Changes to shape or surface condition deserve prompt competent inspection.
BASE
Movement or poor support
Uneven, damaged or unsuitable bases can place harmful stress on a tank.
LOSS
Unexpected oil use
A falling level, unexplained consumption or repeated deliveries may indicate a fault.
ODOUR
Persistent oil smell
Investigate recurring odours near the tank, boiler, lines or inside the home.
STAINS
Damp or rainbow staining
Dark patches, wet fittings or sheen can be early signs of leakage.
DAMAGE
Impact or weather damage
Check after storms, building work, gardening, vehicle contact or ground movement.
NOT SURE ABOUT A WARNING SIGN?
Do not take chances with a doubtful oil system.
A competent tank or heating specialist can inspect the equipment and explain repair, pump-out or replacement options directly with you.