OFTEC, the body that represents off-gas grid heating technicians, has published guidance on checking oil tanks as part of the household spring cleaning.
Oil tanks that store fuel for a heating system are safe and reliable, but need to be maintained and checked regularly.
Start by inspecting the tank for damage. Look for bulges, cracks, corrosion and rust. For plastic tanks, look out for discolouration. If you spot any of these signs, the tank may need replacing. Also, check the pipes and fittings for damage.
If the tank or pipes are leaking, no matter how small the leak is, it will need repairing. If the heating system appears to be using more fuel than usual, this could also indicate that there is a leak. An oil leak can be expensive to fix, but could be covered by a home insurance policy. If not, and there is no existing leak, the policy may be extended to include oil leaks.
Make sure that the area around the tank is clear. Some homeowners cover the tank to make it look better, but this could be a safety risk. It is a good idea to make the tank secure with a lock to prevent oil theft. Spring is also a good time to fill the tank as suppliers tend to be less busy.
Though you can perform basic checks yourself, it is best to use an OFTEC-registered engineer to inspect the tank and boiler. For professional oil boiler service in Wrexham, Chester and other nearby areas, call Xgas today.
