Whether you use kerosene, diesel or HVO for heating commercial warehouse space heaters, grain dryers, timber dryers, or domestic boilers, you will almost certainly have an oil tank on site. These humble tanks, often taken for granted, do need checking and maintenance from time to time especially in the commercial, industrial or agricultural sectors.
What’s the latest on oil tanks?
Given the latest update from the UK Government, oil-fired heating is still a viable solution for at least another 12 years. So if you already have oil-fired heating of some type you might want to take a look at your oil tank and consider if it is still meeting your needs.
How do I tell if my oil tank is compliant?
The key things to consider in relation to older oil tanks are environmental and fire safety. The Oil Storage Regulations relate to both aspects. Clearly it is vitally important that oil doesn’t leak from a tank or its associated pipework and cause environmental pollution. Obviously, kerosene is also flammable – and leaking tanks, valves or pipework can present a fire risk as well. Single-skinned tanks are most susceptible to leaks.
Here’s a quick checklist of things to look for:
| Area around the tank clear of excess vegetation so it can be easily accessed? | |
| Steel tank – rust, especially at corners and around outlets and vents | |
| Plastic tank – splits in the tank, especially below the oil level | |
| Check for any bulging of the sides of the tank | |
| Condition of base and feet or frame of tank – still solid and undamaged? | |
| Level gauge still working (if fitted)? | |
| Outlet fittings still sound, with no evidence of leaks? | |
| Hoses or pipework still in good condition, especially checking any joints? | |
| Is there any water in the tank? Signs of this might be if the boiler/heater keeps cutting out or if the lid isn’t on securely. |
Spares and repairs
Some things can be replaced or repaired if the tank itself is still in good condition, such as new outlet fittings, filters, gauges, hoses or pipework – all of which Tanks-UK can supply.
Steel tanks where the paint is beginning to wear can be patched with touch-up paint if needed, but if they are already rusting it is a sign that they probably need to be replaced.
Are single-skinned fuel tanks still legal?
Yes, in certain circumstances. If the capacity is less than 2500 litres and it is not near an open drain or soakaway; within 10 metres of coastal or freshwater sources (e.g. streams or lakes); not within 50 metres of a well, spring or borehole.
However, if replacing a tank, it is strongly recommended to purchase a bunded tank which provides for containment of 110% of the inner tank contents within an outer shell.
Businesses and farms have different rules from purely domestic use, so check the Government website and your local council requirements.
Save money on cost of fuel – buy a new tank now!
Fuel oil of all types is going up in price at the moment. Now might be a good time to invest in a larger tank to save on heating costs through the winter months. With a huge choice of sizes and configurations, you will be sure to find one the right size with Tanks-UK Ltd. If you need a special size then we can build steel tanks to order to your specification.
Just give us a call on 01953 665940 or email info@tanks-uk.com with your requirements and we’ll send you a quote.