Oil tank inspection checklist: 9 signs your oil tank may need attention

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As temperatures rise during the summer months, many homeowners focus on maintaining their gardens, properties, and outdoor spaces. However, summer is also an excellent time to check the condition of your heating oil tank.

Regular oil tank inspections can help identify potential problems before they become costly repairs.

At Suffolk Oil Solutions, we offer professional oil tank inspections / surveys, but there are also several simple checks you can carry out yourself.

Why is it important to inspect your oil tank?

An annual oil tank inspection helps ensure your tank remains safe and fit for purpose. .

If you notice any of the following warning signs, we recommend arranging a professional oil tank inspection.

Oil tank inspection checklist

1. Signs of deterioration

Look for:

  • Rust
  • Oil staining
  • Cracks

These can indicate that your oil tank is beginning to weaken and may need to be replaced.

2. Visible damage

Check your oil tank for dents, impact damage, splits or other visible defects that could affect its integrity.

3. Bulging or distortion

Bulging or distortion can indicate structural weakness.

4. Overgrown vegetation

Plants growing around your oil tank can hide developing problems. Keeping plants well maintained allows for easier inspection and maintenance.

5. Problems with the tank base or supports

Inspect the base and supporting structure for signs of:

  • Cracking
  • Susidence
  • Movement

6. Oil staining on or around the tank

Any signs of oil staining on the tank, pipework, supports, or surrounding ground should be investigated promptly as they may indicate a leak.

7. Faulty oil level gauge

If your oil level gauge is not displaying accurate readings it makes it difficult to monitor oil levels.

8. Your oil tank is more than 15 years old

Older tanks will have suffered wear and tear and are at greater risk of deterioration.

9. No annual inspection has been carried out

Regular oil tank inspections help identify issues before they become serious problems.

Need an oil tank inspection?

If you have any concerns about the condition of your oil tank, don’t wait for a problem to develop.

The team at Suffolk Oil Solutions can carry out a professional oil tank inspection and provide expert advice on replacement oil tanks if required.

Whether you have noticed signs of damage or simply want peace of mind, we are here to help.

To arrange an oil tank inspection with Suffolk Oil Solutions just contact us.

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