11/09/2024

Most Common Summer Issues for Oil Tanks and How to Fix Them

During the summer months, it is important to consider how the hot weather can affect your oil tank and, therefore, the quality of its contents. You can take many steps to ensure your tank doesn’t surrender to issues such as condensation and corrosion during extreme heat or direct sunlight. This blog aims to address potential issues your tank could face over the summer, and how you can prevent them.

Condensation

When the temperature of the tank rises due to sunlight and the general heat of summer, condensation starts to form in the space between the oil level and the top of the tank. Condensation can lead to oil contamination, rust, and corrosion, as well as worsening cracks and splits on the tank’s exterior.

Condensation occurs when the interior temperature of the tank is cooler than the exterior temperature. The oil draws water from the air inside the tank and converts water vapour into droplets that accumulate on the internal walls over time.

Solution

To prevent condensation, try to keep outdoor tanks shaded in warm weather, and ensure that your tank is kept topped up to reduce the amount of space where condensation can occur. Filling your oil tank in the summer can help you save money by taking advantage of off-peak prices.

Sludge

Sludge is a thick, dark, and gooey substance that can form at the bottom of your oil tank over time. It is made up of debris, dirt, sediment, excess moisture, rust flakes, and microorganisms. Sludge can form when oil is left in a tank for a prolonged amount of time without being touched or moved, especially in a mostly empty tank. Many tank owners discover sludge in their tanks in the autumn when they start using their heating again. This can result in the need for costly sludge removal before they can refill their tank, causing delays in receiving the fuel delivery and getting their fuel tank back in operation.

Sludge may develop for various reasons, but during the summer, it typically comes from condensation. When this condensation cools down and settles on top of the oil in the tank, bacteria begin to form, forming sludge.

Solution

Similarly to the solution to condensation, keeping your oil tank fuel level full throughout the summer can help eradicate the risk of sludge forming.

Flaking and Rusting of Metal Fixtures

As condensation oxidises, it can cause rust on metal fixtures. Joints and fixtures can become flaky from being in direct sunlight and due to the hot, dry weather. Internal fixtures can rust due to the condensation, leading to peeling and the potential entry of rust into the tank, contaminating oil, appliances, and components such as filters.

Solution

It is important to regularly check pipe fixtures and fittings and have annual oil tank inspections by qualified and competent professionals, such as OFTEC technicians, to identify any potential issues. Scheduling an oil tank inspection in advance for the summer can help prevent costly damages, long waiting times, and peak prices later on.

Bulging, Swelling and Stretching

Single-skinned plastic oil tanks that are placed in direct sunlight can become discoloured, leading to expansion and distortion of the plastic. This can cause the tanks to twist, bow, and eventually split. Sun bleaching creates weak points that are susceptible to cracking, leading to fuel leaks and water seepage. These aesthetic issues can result in more serious problems such as tank and appliance breakdown, fuel contamination, and expensive environmental fines.

Solution

During the summer, it’s important to protect your oil tank from sun bleaching. You can create shade by planting trees, bushes, or shrubs around the tank, as long as you comply with government regulations. Additionally, you can install a canopy or cover to shield the tank from direct sunlight. Another option is to put up a fence or build a shed to provide shade and shelter for your oil tank.

Poor Ventilation and Fumes

The oil in domestic tanks expands and contracts with temperature changes during the summer, which can cause the tank to stretch and result in structural damage. The heat can also cause the oil to get hotter and release harmful fumes that can affect people and local wildlife.

Adequate airflow is crucial in hot conditions for preventing heat build-up. Ventilation regulates tank temperature, reduces environmental and health risks, ensures longevity, and minimises fumes and vapours.

Solution

Vent caps allow the tank to breathe and expand without causing damage while helping regulate the temperature. Positioning your oil tank in a shaded area can also help reduce the temperature change inside the tank.

Fire

In the summer, there is a slight potential risk of fire if your oil tank gets too hot and has poor ventilation. It can also be hazardous during hot, dry weather if a fire already occurs in the area. Although oil tank fires are incredibly rare, it is important to prepare for such an event, as the aftermath of a fire can be devastating to property, wildlife, and the local environment, and it can also be dangerous to people.

Solution

Installing a fire-resistant barrier, such as a wall or barrier made of materials like concrete or brick, creates a protective buffer zone around the tank. This helps to prevent the spread of fire and heat, minimising the chances of the tank being directly exposed to flames. By confining the fire and heat within a limited area, the risk of structural damage or rupture of the tank is reduced.

If you think you’re oil tank has become a victim of hot weather and sunlight this summer, contact a member of our team and benefit from our 24/7 oil tank emergency service.