03/07/2023

Domestic Oil Tank Leaks: The Signs to Spot, What Causes it, and How Do I Fix it?

Oil tank leakages are not always as apparent as they may first seem. Aside from the strong smell of fuel, or visible wet spots on the floor, the bulging of your tank’s exterior can also indicate that your tank requires emergency service. Domestic Oil tank leakages can be tricky to predict; occurrences such as extreme weather conditions and the age of a tank can increase the chances of your oil tank leaking. As well as breaking down the signs and causes of an oil tank leak, this blog will also advise you on how to respond in the case of one.

Signs that your oil tank is leaking

Identifying signs that your oil tank may be leaking can help you avoid an oil tank emergency. Here are eight easy-to-spot indicators to look out for on your domestic oil tank:

• Strong Odour: A noticeably strong smell near your oil tank or the surrounding area can be a sign of a leak.
• Stains and Discolouration: for dark, oily, or wet stains or discolouration on the ground near the tank. If your tank is near the soil, it can still seep into the ground and leave visible marks.
• Unusual plant Growth: Excessive or uncontrollable plant growth in the surrounding area could indicate an oil tank leak; oil can act as a fertiliser; therefore, a change in plant cultivation is an indicator.
• Sudden Increase in Fuel Consumption: A significant increase in oil consumption, without a noticeable change in weather, can indicate oil leaking from the tank.
• Decreased Oil levels: If you regularly check your oil tank levels and notice a significant decrease without reasonable explanation, your tank could be leaking.
• Water Accumulation: if you notice significant water around the ground below your oil tank, or if your oil is experiencing water contamination, your tank may have cracks or splits, allowing water to seep through and oil to leak.
• Corrosion and Rust: These are signs that your oil tank’s structural integrity is compromised; the failure of your tank could lead to it leaking its contents.
• Splits, cracks and bulges: If you notice any physical abnormalities in your oil tank, you should assume that a leak is inevitable.

For more ways to spot if your oil tank is compromised and could lead to an oil leak, check out our blog, How to Know if Your Oil Tank is Failing.

What Causes an Oil Tank Leak?

There are several causes of oil tank leakages, which are not mutually exclusive. Understanding what causes leaks can help you to be more aware and put in preventives to lower the risk of an oil tank leakage.

• Corrosion: Metal oil tanks, over time, can corrode 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.
• Poor maintenance: Failing to self-inspect or schedule annual inspections by a professional and effectively maintain your oil tank can lead to leakages. The lack of maintenance allows issues to go undetected, increasing the likelihood of oil tank leakages.
• 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.
• 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: An oil tank becomes more susceptible to deterioration and potential leaks as it ages. The lifespan of an oil tank can vary depending on factors such as the material it’s made of plastic oil tank, or metal oil tank , the quality of construction, and maintenance practices.

How do I fix a leaking oil tank?

Once you discover your oil tank is leaking, you must act immediately. By following the steps discussed below, you can ensure your response to the leak is cost and time effective whilst being safe.

• Safety first: Ensure the safety of yourself and others by keeping away from the area around the leaking tank. If there is any immediate danger, evacuate the area and contact emergency services.
• Stop the leak: If it is safe to do so and you can access the source of the leak, try to stop it by turning off any valves or plugs connected to the tank. This may help reduce the amount of oil escaping and the risk of harm caused by the oil.
• Prevent ignition sources: Keep any open flames, sparks, or potential sources of ignition away from the leak. Oil fumes can be flammable, so avoid smoking or using electrical equipment near the leak.
• Contact professionals: Contacting an OFTEC registered technician, environmental agency, or emergency services is crucial to report the leak and seek assistance. They will guide how to proceed and may recommend professional cleanup services.
• Contain the spill: If possible, try to contain the spilt oil using disposable absorbent pads, sand, sawdust, and cardboard. Place them around the leaking tank to prevent the oil from spreading further. Avoid using materials that may react with oil or cause additional environmental harm.
• Document the incident: Take photos or videos of the leak and any resulting damage for insurance purposes. Keep a record of any expenses incurred during the cleanup process; you may need to use these if you contact your insurance company.
• Notify authorities: Depending on your location, specific reporting requirements for oil spills or leaks may exist. If your domestic tank stores over 3,500 litres of oil, you must report the spill or leak to authorities. People should contact the Environment Agency on 0800 807060 to report an oil spill or leak.
• Cleanup: You must contact professionals for an oil tank emergency service. They have the equipment, expertise, and knowledge to safely and effectively handle oil spills.

Oil tank leakages are difficult to predict, but having regular oil tank inspections and practising good oil tank maintenance can help to catch early signs of damage to your tank, which may prevent an oil tank leak later on.

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.

If you have any more queries about your oil tank or concerns surrounding leaks, call 01638 781710.