Your heating oil tank should be safe, stable and suitable for storing fuel. Over time, tanks can weaken, crack, rust or become damaged. If your tank is no longer safe, it may need replacing before your next heating oil delivery.
Do not ignore signs of damage. A leaking tank can cause fuel loss, heating problems and environmental damage.
Visible Cracks or Splits
Cracks and splits are clear warning signs, especially on plastic tanks.
Check the tank body for:
- Small surface cracks
- Deep splits
- Damage around seams
- Cracks near fittings
- Signs of oil weeping from the tank
If you see cracks, ask for professional advice before ordering more oil.
Bulging or Distortion
A tank should keep its correct shape. If it looks swollen, warped or uneven, it may be weakening.
Look for:
- Bulging sides
- Dips in the tank roof
- Uneven walls
- A tank that looks misshapen
- Changes in shape after warm or cold weather
This can be a sign the tank is no longer structurally sound.
Rust or Corrosion
Steel tanks can rust over time. Rust may weaken the tank and increase the risk of leaks.
Check for:
- Rust patches
- Flaking metal
- Corroded legs or supports
- Damp areas around the base
- Staining beneath the tank
Strong Oil Smells or Stains
A strong oil smell can suggest a leak or failing part of the system.
Warning signs include:
- Oil stains on the ground
- Wet patches near the tank
- A strong fuel smell
- Dead grass or damaged plants nearby
- Drips from pipework or fittings
Unstable Base
Your tank should sit on a firm, level base. If the base has moved, cracked or sunk, the tank may become unsafe.
When to Get Help
Get professional advice if your tank looks damaged, old, unstable or unsafe. Do not wait until it leaks.
Need Heating Oil Advice?
Barton Petroleum can help with heating oil deliveries and advise if there are access or tank condition concerns before delivery.