Over a long period of time, water can build up in your domestic heating oil tank caused by a number of different factors, these include:
Damaged Tank
The filler cap being left open
Condensation build-up
Severe weather conditions
Your boiler can be affected significantly by water contamination in your oil tank, so it is important to know how to spot it and the steps you can take to avoid it.
Condensation
More common during the warmer months and in partially filled fuel tanks, water contamination can occur when cold water vapour meets a warmer surface.
When the external temperature begins to increase during the summer months, the tanks internal temperature is cooler than the outside climate. This causes moist air to cool inside of the tank and water vapour in the air to produce water on the inner walls. Since water is heavier and denser than most liquid fuels, this produces a layer of water that settles at the bottom of the tank.
We recommend ensuring your tank is topped up year-round to help reduce the risk of condensation in your tank and also reduces the risk of your tank running dry. Not filling your tank can leave room for air which can increase the chance of condensation.
Rainwater
Older, single skin tanks have a much higher chance of rainwater entering than a newer/well-maintained tank.
Signs to look out for include:
Cracks/splits in tank
Corroded seals
Damaged vents
Filler caps not tightened
Domestic heating oil tanks have a lifespan of around 10-15 years with the correct maintenance. At Andrew Gray & Co Fuels, we can supply and install a wide range of heating oil tanks .
Water Contamination
Microbial Contamination - Water creates a suitable breeding ground for bacteria to grow. Bacteria release acid that can corrode fuel lines, filters and causes sludge build-up on the bottom of the tank.
Frozen Fuel Lines - If your fuel is contaminated with water it can freeze at 0°. These can create wear in fuel systems, blocking fuel filters and increasing corrosion by expanding inside larger cracks
Corroded oil tank – with metal tanks, corrosion forms as a result of water contamination, from the inside out – so without regular checks, you won’t be aware of any issues that are occurring within. Water produces iron oxide (rust) when it comes into contact with iron and steel surfaces, causing abrasive wear to machinery and equipment parts. Corrosion causes sediment and bacteria to build up, causing injector problems, damaged burner components and eventually, a full tank replacement.
How To Spot Water In Your Tank
Tank Service/health check
Visual inspections alone cannot adequately check for water within your tank. A registered OFTEC engineer would be required to come to your home and test your fuel for water. If only a small amount of contamination is found, the engineer can remove the water and decontaminate your fuel. If water is present, they can remove & Dispose of it in accordance with environmental regulations.
Water Detection Paste
A water detection paste can help determine if there’s water present in your tank. The paste will change colour when it comes into contact with water.
To check for water, apply some of the water detection paste on a stick and gently place it into the tank until it hits the bottom. Leave it for roughly 30 seconds and then remove it from the tank. If the paste has changed colour then there is water present in your tank.
To ensure that all the water is removed the oil filter should be changed and the boiler feed pipe flushed. This can be carried out by a registered OFTEC engineer if it is out of your expertise.
To book a tank installation or for more information on the above post, don’t hesitate to contact us on 01563 525215 and one of our friendly staff will assist you.
