If you own a plastic oil tank, keeping your tank maintained and serviced regularly is essential to control the condensation within your tank and to help prevent any other costly problems. Just as you would with a car or a boiler, your tank needs to be well maintained and routinely checked.
Unfortunately, plastic oil tanks are non-repairable, read on to find out more information on what to do if you have a leak and some simple steps you can take to help prevent it.
Plastic Tanks Or Steel Tanks?
Plastic tanks are the most commonly bought over steel tanks as they are less prone to corrosion or rust. When buying an oil tank it’s important to take into consideration whether you need a bunded tank or a single skin tank. it is a legal requirement for tanks storing over 3500 litres to be bunded.
A Bunded tank is made up of an inside tank that stores the fuel and an outer tank which can provide protection against weather, theft, contamination and leaks.
What Causes Damage To An Oil Tank?
Tank Foundation
A base that Is uneven can cause the fuel tank to go under pressure in certain areas once filled. This can then cause the plastic to stretch and eventually splitting. To stop this from happening it’s essential to have your tank installed by a registered OFTEC engineer who will ensure that your base is fit for purpose and that all standards are met.
Sun Exposure
This problem is more common with single skin tanks as they have no outer shell to protect it. When fitting your tank it is important to take into consideration the position of your tank. Tanks positioned in direct sunlight can become discoloured/ whitened causing the tank to expand and deform. Over time this can then weaken the points in the tank that hold the most weight. This eventually causes cracking where fuel can escape and water can get in.
Cold Weather
A drop in temperature can cause the plastic on your tank to become brittle which can leave it more prone to physical damage such as cracking and splitting. During the winter months, we suggest visually inspecting your tank at least once every two weeks and to keep an eye on your fuel levels for any sudden drops where a leak may be present.
Rain
Water Contamination can lead to a whole load of problems. Water within fuel tanks can lead to bacterial growth and sludge formation which causes clogged fuel filters, injectors and lines. During periods of wet weather, you should ensure that your tank is completely watertight, keeping lids securely closed and checking for cracks or any damage where water could possibly enter.
Visual Inspection
We recommend to carry out a visual inspection once every month. Similar to a car, your tank can become unsafe between services. Our drivers will always carry out a visual inspection prior to delivery which you can do too. Some things to check for include:
Cracks- Check for any small or large cracks in the Body of your tank.
Discolouration - if the tank is turning white or fading due to sun exposure it may be time to replace your tank
Bulges- check for any bowing where the tank is bulging.
Smell - If you are able to smell kerosene strongly you may have a tank leak.
Stains - If there are any stains or wet patches around your tank this would suggest a leak.
Corrosion- Check all pipework for any rust or damage.
My Oil Tank Is Cracked, What Should I Do?
If you notice a crack in your oil tank that is causing a leak it is important to get this fixed as soon as possible. A quick but temporary fix that you can do to stop oil from leaking or water from entering is rubbing a bar of soap into the splits/cracks. Duct tape can also be used to cover any cracks however, these are temporary fixes and it is essential that you replace your tank as soon as possible.
Fuel spills can be extremely expensive to clear. It is against the law to cause pollution and you will have to take immediate action to clean it up. If you find that there is a leak from your tank, contact the national incident/pollution hotline on 0800 80 70 60 which is available 24/7. Collect any oil drips in a container and stop oil from entering drains or water by using absorbent material such as soil.
How can i prevent damage to my tank?
Unfortunately a fuel tank cannot be repaired once damaged. Having your tank serviced regularly just as you would with your boiler is important so you can notice any signs early on to avoid any spillage/damage.
Purchasing a bunded oil tank is a great investment that helps you avoid damage from weather, spills and contamination whilst protecting the environment and providing the safest way to store your Oil.
At Andrew Grays we can supply and install a vast range of tanks. For more information on our fuel storage solutions give us a phone on 01563 525215 or to view our range of tanks Click Here.
