18/10/2023
The ultimate guide to replacing your oil tank
How long does an oil tank last?
The average oil tank lasts between 15-20 years, with a recommended checkup to be completed after 15 years, to ensure your tank is still working properly. Oil tanks can last much longer with proper care and maintenance; however, this is the best time to check your tank and see how you can increase the longevity of your fuel storage system.
While your tank may look fine on the outside, an OFTEC-registered engineer will be able to see if it has any internal damage and is working to its full capacity.
When moving into a new home, it is best to book an inspection as you never know how the previous tenants have cared for their oil tank, and an unexpected breakage is never a welcome cost. When speaking to your estate agents, ask if the oil tank has been recently checked and how long since its initial installation.
Signs your oil tank needs replacing
- Book an inspection immediately if you see any of the following…
- New dents on the side of the tank
- Rust forming anywhere on the tank
- A broken gauge
- Unprotected oil lines
- Clogs within the pipes
- Less efficient oil usage
- Oil runs
- Wet spots
- Leaks
- Unstable tank footing (usually due to improper installation)
- Faulty vent alarmsEdward
- Plastic oil tanks
- Metal oil tanks
Plastic oil tanks can fade in direct sunlight; this can damage the outside and increase the likelihood of splits and cracks. If you spot any cracks in your oil tank, you need to book an inspection with an OFTEC-registered engineer who can thoroughly assess the damage.
The metal reacts with water creating rust which erodes the metal. After 15 years, your tank will likely show signs of rust forming around nozzles and outlets. This indicates that you need to replace your tank, as you will likely have water inside. Water in your oil tank is less than ideal; read more about the damage that water can cause in your oil tank here.
Tips to make your oil tank last
- Protect your tank from the elements
- Inspect for damage
- Install a gauge
After heavy snowfall, hail, or rain, remove any snow/ice/standing water from the top of the tank to ensure that water is not leaking into the tank.
While often the damage to your tank is hidden inside, if you do see damage on the outside of your tank, the likelihood is that it is already affecting the efficiency of your heating system. However, the sooner this is inspected, the better – so make sure to book an engineer if you do spot anything.
Gauges are used to see how much oil is in your tank. It is very important to never let your tank get too low on oil as the ‘sludge’ (oil residue) and water lying in the bottom of the tank will then be taken up into the piping. This sludge mixture can clog pipes and completely break your heating system, so a gauge will help you monitor your oil levels and inform you when it is time to refill.
Replacing your oil tank
The process
- We will assess how much oil remains in the tank and determine if it is contaminated or still suitable for use. This oil will then be pumped into a storage container, or disposed of safely.
- Once the oil is removed from the tank, we will disconnect it from any connected piping and outlets and take the tank to be recycled.
- Depending on the tank type that replaces the old one, we may need to survey the area where the new unit is due to be placed. Due to changes in oil storage laws, we may need to change the location or update the tank’s base to comply with new government and environmental regulations.
- Once the new location is determined (and is within guidelines), our team will deliver your new oil tank and install it, leaving only oncei t is completely fitted and you have a fully working oil system.
Contact us
Need help determining which type of tank you need? Contact us or check out our range here.
