SG Tanks

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Don’t forget about your oil tank this summer

Bunded oil tank positioned outdoors

While you’re lounging by the pool or manning the BBQ this summer, spare a thought for your oil tank sitting at home.

 

It’ll probably be the last thing you want to think about when you’re soaking up the sun, but the heat and humidity of the summer months can seriously affect oil tanks. This is because the warmer air can cause condensation and moist air to build up in your tank, leading to rust and corrosion. In turn, this corrosion can eventually lead to leaks and other issues, which could be expensive to sort out.

 

So, how can you guard against this? Obviously, you can’t control how hot the weather is so is there anything you can do to reduce the risk?

 

Good news – there is.

 

1. Check on it

If you want something to work as efficiently as possible, you have to maintain it. The same applies to oil tanks. By checking on your tank regularly, you can keep it free of leaks. This will not only save you money in the long run, but it will also protect the environment.

 

Since summer is often a time when you don’t need heat, there is less of a demand for professionals to come out and service oil tanks. Therefore, it’s easier for leaks and minor tank damage to be overlooked.

 

Make sure you clue yourself up on what to look for when checking your tank, both internally or externally. Otherwise, a minor issue could manifest into a major problem which you’ll only realise when you need to use the tank again.

 

2. Fill it up

Many people leave their oil tanks for the summer with either a little bit of heating oil left in, or completely empty. While this might make sense, leaving your tank so empty can allow moisture to build up and cause corrosion. A very easy and effective way of preventing this is simply by filling your tank up over the summer. After all, the less space there is in the tank, the less chance there is for moisture to accumulate. Simple.

 

Moreover, as summer is an off-peak season, heating oil prices are normally cheaper so filling your tank then can be more cost-effective. You’ll also get the added bonus of not having to wait for a professional to come out when you need heat in the winter months, so it’s a win-win.

 

Final thoughts

Summertime can be a lot of fun. A time full of beach activities, BBQs and water fights – what’s not to like?

 

What is less fun though, is coming back from a holiday to an expensive oil tank leak because you didn’t maintain it well enough before you went away. Don’t make that mistake. Check on your tank and make sure to fill it up before you go away. Then, you can feel rest assured that it’ll still be fine by the time you get back.

 

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Things to think about when positioning a bunded oil tank

Bunded oil tank

Thanks to their extra levels of protection, Bunded oil tanks are one of the easiest and safest way to store oil for helping to heat your home or business. As with any oil tank however, you will need to make sure that the tank is installed safely and correctly. There are also a number of other things to think about if you’re thinking of getting an oil tank installed. This includes building regulations, OFTEC regulations, where to safely put the tank and why you should get one in the first place.

 

Why you should get a bunded oil tank

 

As mentioned, bunded oil tanks are a safe way of storing heating oil thanks to the way they are designed. This is because of the bund around the tank that gives it an extra layer of protection. The secondary containment tank helps to provide additional protection against potential leaks and spillages, which also helps to prevent damage to your home and the environment. Of course, bunded oil tanks still need regular maintenance to make sure they are in good condition and working as they should.

 

OFTEC fire regulations – what you need to know

 

If you’re using a bunded oil tank and connecting it to a boiler in your home, then you must comply with OFTEC fire regulations. This includes guidance on where you should position the bunded tank. For example, the guidelines state that a bunded oil tank must be located on a non-combustible base covering an area of 300mm around the exterior of the tank. You must also make sure the tank is kept at specific distance form non-fire rated parts of the property such as sheds, fences, doors and windows.

 

Full information on the OFTEC regulations for domestic oil tanks and storage can be found on the official OFTEC website. This includes specific measurements to keep in mind when positioning your bunded oil tank.

 

Don’t forget about building regulations

 

If you’re using a bunded oil tank for domestic purposes, you also need to think about building regulations. These can differ depending on where you are in the country, so you will need to check the regulations put in place for your local area. If you’re getting an oil tank installed, they will be able to assess this for you if they are part of a scheme such as OFTEC or APHC.

 

If you’re installing the tank yourself, you will need to talk to your local council so that the necessary inspections can be carried out. As well as helping you to comply with the correct regulations, this will also help you position the tank safely and securely. Of course, you will also need to consider the size of the tank and where it will end up.

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Merry Christmas from SG Tanks

Decorations on Christmas tree

Now that the festive season is upon us, our team at SG Tanks would like to thank all of our clients for the busy year we’ve had, and wish everyone a happy holiday and the very best for the coming months.

 

Since January, we’ve worked with lots of familiar faces and new clients, installing new oil storage tanks, replacing damaged parts and answering all kinds of questions that you’ve had. The team has been up and down the south coast, meeting with business owners and private homeowners to provide simple DESO tanks as well as building our custom steel tanks to provide total peace of mind.

 

Hopefully, you’ve found us not only hardworking and professional, but also friendly and knowledgeable about the services we provide. Lots of people have been leaving positive feedback on our Checkatrade page and we’re always happy to hear about what we’re doing right – as well as any areas you feel there’s room for improvement!

 

If you have any last-minute requirements before the cold weather fully hits, don’t forget that we’re always available. Whether you’re concerned about the condition of your tank or want to plan an installation for the New Year, give our team a call and we’ll be happy to help.

 

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Keep your tank secure this Christmas

Protecting your house

Now that many of us have filled up our tanks ready for the cold season, the next important step is to make sure our fuel supply is secure. Given the value of a full tank of oil, it’s a prime time for vandals and thieves to scope out properties that might have just had a delivery (or be expecting one soon).

 

Here are our top tips for protecting your tank this winter.

 

1 – Install a level sensor so you can monitor how much oil is inside your tank. Not only will this help you keep an eye on consumption, it can alert you to sudden changes due to theft or a leak.

 

2 – Check that the filler cap is always locked – invest in a lockable cap if you don’t already have one.

 

3 – If your property has gates, make sure these are locked too – especially at night or when you’re not home.

 

4 – Install a fence so that the tank isn’t visible from the road or property entrance (but make sure it meets building regulations).

 

5 – Double-check that your home insurance not only covers your tank but its contents, too.

 

6 – If you’re having a new tank installed, make sure it’s visible from your home so you can keep an eye on it.

 

7 – If several of your neighbours also have oil tanks, make sure you warn each other of any suspicious activity in the area (and report and incidents to the police).

 

8 – Be extra vigilant just after you have a delivery, in case thieves have been watching and waiting for you to refill the tank.

 

Finally, remember that if your tank is showing signs of wear and tear, you should not delay in replacing it. Take a look at our winter maintenance tips for information about how to inspect your tank, and call our team straight away if you notice anything unusual. Having to invest in a new tank might seem like an inconvenience at this time of year, but it’s nowhere near as frustrating as losing your entire fuel supply and footing a costly clean-up – trust us!