03/06/2025

7 Common Domestic Oil Tank Problems (and How to Fix Them)

If you rely on an oil tank to heat your home, you probably don’t think about it often, until something goes wrong. And when it does go wrong, it can be anything from inconvenient to stressful.

We’ve worked with homeowners for years, helping spot problems early, sort out repairs, and replace tired old tanks with safer, more efficient ones. As a family-run business, we understand how important it is to have a home that feels safe, warm, and well looked after. So, if you’re not sure whether your oil tank is in good shape, this guide is for you.

Let’s walk through some of the most common problems we see, and what you can do if they resonate with you!

1. Oil Tank Leaks

Oil leaks are probably the biggest concern for any tank owner. They can be caused by cracks, rust, loose pipework, or even just old age. If you’ve spotted oily patches on the ground, a strong diesel smell, or dark stains near your tank, it’s best not to ignore them.

Leaks aren’t just messy, they can harm your garden, your health, and your wallet! If you’re worried, it’s always worth getting someone out for a look. Catching issues can help prevent as much disruption as possible.

If you think your oil tank is leaking, call a member of our team to help with your emergency!

2. Water Getting into the Tank

You might not see it, but water can sometimes sneak into your oil tank, usually through damaged filler caps, poor seals, or just condensation. Once it’s in there, it can cause all kinds of issues: sludge, blocked filters, even heating breakdowns.

If your boiler’s acting up or your tank hasn’t been checked in a while, it might be time for a professional clean or even a replacement.  Call us to enquire!

3. Sludge Build-Up

Sludge forms over time as oil naturally breaks down, especially when water finds its way into the tank through condensation or faulty seals. This mixture of oil, water, and debris settles at the bottom of the tank and gradually thickens.

If enough sludge builds up, it can start to block the outlet pipe or fuel lines, making it harder for oil to reach your boiler. This can lead to inconsistent heating, clogged filters, or even system breakdowns if left too long.

If you’ve noticed your heating isn’t as reliable as it used to be or if it’s been years since your tank was last checked, it might be time for a check-up. Our team can help you determine whether a clean will do or if your tank is due an upgrade.

4. Rust and Corrosion

If your tank is made of metal, it’s naturally prone to rust over time, especially if it’s exposed to the weather. Corrosion might start on the outside, but it can also happen inside the tank, where it’s harder to spot.

The trouble with corrosion is that it slowly weakens the tank’s structure. Even if it looks mostly fine from the outside, the metal can become thin in places, making it more vulnerable to leaks or splits, especially in extreme temperatures. Internal rust can also flake off into your fuel, causing blockages in the pipework or damaging your heating system.

We’ve helped lots of people move over to plastic tanks, which don’t rust and are easier to look after. If your tank is more than 10 or 15 years old, or starting to show its age, it might be time to consider a replacement.

5. Broken or Stuck Gauges

It’s easy to miss a faulty gauge until you run out of oil unexpectedly or overfill the tank. If your gauge is stuck, hard to read, or just unreliable, it’s worth replacing. There are great digital options that make it easy to keep track of how much oil you’ve got left by looking at your phone from anywhere.

We often spot these issues during routine visits, and swapping out a gauge is a quick fix that can save you a lot of trouble later on. Call us to arrange a visit.

6. Frozen or Blocked Pipes

If your oil pipes are exposed to the cold, they can freeze up during winter. That means no oil can get through to your boiler, leading to a cold house and potential structural damage to pipework.

We can help by insulating the pipes or relocating them somewhere more protected. It’s a small change that can make a big difference when the weather turns. Contact a member of our team to find out more.

7. Damaged Vents or Caps

Your oil tank needs working vents and filler caps to stay in good shape.  Over time, caps can become loose or cracked, and vents can get blocked or damaged, especially if they’re exposed to the weather or knocked during a delivery.

When that happens, it’s easier for rainwater, dirt, or even insects to get into the tank. Once inside, they can contaminate your fuel and cause blockages or corrosion. In colder months, water that’s entered the tank can even freeze, leading to bigger problems with your system.

We always check these parts during Inspections. They’re easy to overlook but can save you hassle later. If you’re not sure yours are in good condition, it’s worth a quick check by a professional.

How can Oil Tank Change help?

If you’ve spotted any of these issues, or even if you just have a gut feeling that something’s not quite right, don’t worry. These problems are common, and they’re usually fixable with the right support. Whether it’s a simple repair, a thorough inspection, or a full tank replacement, we’re here to help you figure out the best next step.

At Oil Tank Change, we take pride in offering honest, straightforward help. We’re a family business, so we understand what it means to look after a home, and we always aim to treat yours with the same care as we would our own. Call us on 01638 781710 for more information or to book a service.