18/11/2024
Is your Oil Tank Leaking?
Oil tank leaks often come as a complete surprise. Sometimes, no matter how much you inspect or maintain them, they can start leaking for what seems like no reason. Predicting domestic oil tank leaks can be tricky. Events such as extreme weather conditions and the age of a tank can increase the chances of your oil tank leaking. Understanding the signs of a leaking oil tank, how to handle a leak, and ways to prevent them in the first place can help reduce the risks and costs associated with oil tank spillages.
Signs that your oil tank is leaking
There are several ways to check if your oil tank is leaking. Some tell-tale signs can be put down to other factors, such as oil theft or an intentional increase in oil usage. Using signs as a checklist can help you determine whether you need an emergency oil tank service to prevent the leak from escalating and causing wider damage.
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Heating oil and fuel have a very distinctive and strong odour, which you will easily pick up on if you smell it. If you have been exposed to the fumes but have not recognised the smell, you may also feel dizzy or experience headaches. |
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Dark, oily, or wet stains or discolouration on the ground near the tank are a strong indication that your oil tank is leaking from either the skin or a fixture. |
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A significant increase in oil consumption without increasing the amount you use your appliances can indicate oil leaking from the tank. |
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If you notice significant water around the ground below your oil tank, or if your oil tank is contaminated with water, your tank may have cracks or splits, allowing water to seep through and oil to leak. |
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Excessive, uncontrollable or unusual plant growth in the surrounding area could indicate an oil tank leak. Oil can act as a fertiliser and promote the growth of vegetation. |
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If you regularly check your oil tank levels and notice a significant decrease, being certain you have not experienced oil theft, your tank could be leaking. |
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These are signs that your oil tank’s structural integrity is compromised; if it fails, its contents could leak. |
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If you notice any physical abnormalities in your oil tank, you should assume that a leak is inevitable. |
Our guide on common problems with oil tanks may offer insights into whether your tank is leaking, whether it is related to other issues, or whether you need to replace your oil tank before it begins leaking.
What causes oil tank leaks?
Oil tanks can leak for a range of reasons. Some factors are within the owner’s control and can be managed to reduce the risk of a leak, while others are due to natural causes. Understanding all potential causes can help prevent and manage oil tank leakages.
- Poor maintenance: If you do not conduct self-inspections or schedule annual inspections by a professional, your tank may develop issues that go unnoticed and eventually lead to leakages.
- Physical damage: Accidents, such as collisions with falling objects, can cause splits, holes, dents, punctures and cracks. This physical damage can lead to oil leaking out of your tank.
- Corrosion: Metal oil tanks can corrode over time due to exposure to moisture, chemicals, or environmental conditions. Corrosion weakens the tank’s integrity and can lead to serious oil leaks.
- Physical damage: Accidents, such as collisions with falling objects, can cause splits, holes, dents, punctures and cracks. This physical damage can lead to oil leaking out of your tank.
- Improper installation: Incorrect installation of an oil tank, including improper sealing, inadequate support, or incorrect fittings, can create vulnerabilities that may result in leaks over time.
- Manufacturing defects: Occasionally, tanks may have defects or manufacturing errors that lead to leakages. Unfortunately, this cannot be prevented and can only be caught by inspections early on.
- Environmental Factors: Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause condensation inside an oil tank. The water inside the tank can lead to internal rusting and therefore leaks.
- Age: As oil tanks age, they are much more likely to deteriorate, corrode, and leak. The lifespan of an oil tank can vary depending on factors such as the material it’s made of—plastic or metal—the quality of construction, and maintenance practices.
What should I do if my oil tank is leaking?
In the event that you discover your oil tank is leaking, it is important to follow these steps to minimise any damage and protect yourself.
Step 1: Stay away from the area around the tank to ensure your safety. If there is any immediate danger, such as a fire, evacuate the area and contact emergency services.
Step 2: Turn off any valves, taps or appliances linked to your oil tank. This may help reduce the amount of oil leaking and the damage caused by the leaking oil.
Step 3: Keep any open flames, sparks, or potential sources of ignition away from the leak. Oil fumes are flammable, so avoid smoking or using electrical equipment near the leak.
Step 4: Immediately contact an OFTEC-registered technician, environmental agency, or non-emergency services to report the leak and get assistance. Professional services will help you through the process and may recommend professional cleanup services.
Step 5: Try to contain the spilt oil using disposable absorbent pads, sand, sawdust, or cardboard. Place them around the tank to prevent the oil from spreading further. Avoid using materials that may react with oil or cause additional environmental harm such as flushing the oil away with water.
Step 6: Take photos or videos of the leak and any resulting damage for the insurance. Keep a record of any expenses incurred during the cleanup process; you may need to use these if you contact your insurance company.
Step 7: Depending on your area, you may have to report your spillage to the local authorities, for example, if your domestic tank stores over 3,500 litres of oil. In this situation, you should contact the Environment Agency on 0800 807060.
Step 8: You should contact professionals for an oil tank emergency service as they have the equipment, expertise, and knowledge to safely and effectively handle oil spills.
Temporarily Fixing your oil tank
There is no real ‘quick fix’ for a leaking oil tank. However, you can take measures to temporarily stabilise your tank while you wait for a professional’s help. If you notice a small split or crack in your tank, you can take a wet bar of soap and rub it across the physical damage. Keep rubbing the wet bar of soap on the side of the tank until the split or crack looks like it is sealed. This should prevent the oil from leaking out of the tank while you await professional services.
Preventing your oil tank from leaking
Oil tank leakages are difficult to predict, but regular oil tank inspections and good oil tank maintenance can help catch early signs of damage, which may prevent leaks later on. It’s important to supervise inspections and oil deliveries to ensure they are completed properly. Regular boiler servicing can also help prevent issues, so if you notice any signs of trouble, you can attribute them to your oil tank immediately. Switching from a single-skinned oil tank to a bunded alternative is a great way to reduce the risk of spills and leaks.
If you discover your tank is showing signs of cosmetic damage, you should look to get your oil tank removed by professionals and schedule a tank replacement as soon as possible. For any queries about your oil tank or concerns surrounding leaks, call 01638 781710.
