Condensation is the most common way water enters a fuel tank, and it’s more likely to happen in the spring and summer:

· How it happens

When the temperature outside rises faster than the temperature inside the tank, warmer air fills the empty space in the tank. This air draws in moisture from the humid air, which then condenses into water droplets on the inside of the tank.

· How to prevent it

To reduce condensation, you can:

· Provide shade for the tank

· Use Hydrosorb filters

· Regularly inspect and clean your fuel tanks

· Check that the fuel cap fits correctly and is water tight

· Check and replace the tank filters as often as they require

· Get your tank inspected once a year when you get your boiler serviced

· Avoid letting the fuel run too low

You should replace your domestic fuel tank if it’s showing signs of damage, is leaking, or is causing other problems:

· Age

Heating oil tanks typically last around 20 years, but older tanks are more likely to have problems.

· Leaks

Leaks can pose a serious environmental risk and contaminate the surrounding soil.

· Damage

Dents, gouges, scrapes, or other external surface damage can compromise the structural stability of the tank.

· Corrosion

Signs of corrosion or rust on the tank indicate that it may need replacing.

· Inefficient heating

Older tanks are often less efficient, resulting in increased fuel consumption and higher heating bills.

· Exposure to extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures can be catastrophic for domestic oil tanks, especially if they’ve been exposed to frost and snow. You can arrange an annual inspection of your tank by an OFTEC Registered Technician. They will be able to tell you if your tank needs replacing.

In the UK, there are regulatory requirements for oil tanks. New tanks must meet minimum standards set by building control. However, there are no mandatory requirements for upgrading a non-compliant tank.

Replacing your tank with a modern, more efficient model can lead to long-term cost savings. The average cost to replace an oil tank in the UK is between £800 – £4000.

Condensation is the most common way water enters a fuel tank, and it’s more likely to happen in the spring and summer:

· How it happens

When the temperature outside rises faster than the temperature inside the tank, warmer air fills the empty space in the tank. This air draws in moisture from the humid air, which then condenses into water droplets on the inside of the tank.

· How to prevent it

To reduce condensation, you can:

· Provide shade for the tank

· Use Hydrosorb filters

· Regularly inspect and clean your fuel tanks

· Check that the fuel cap fits correctly and is water tight

· Check and replace the tank filters as often as they require

· Get your tank inspected once a year when you get your boiler serviced

· Avoid letting the fuel run too low

You should replace your domestic fuel tank if it’s showing signs of damage, is leaking, or is causing other problems:

· Age

Heating oil tanks typically last around 20 years, but older tanks are more likely to have problems.

· Leaks

Leaks can pose a serious environmental risk and contaminate the surrounding soil.

· Damage

Dents, gouges, scrapes, or other external surface damage can compromise the structural stability of the tank.

· Corrosion

Signs of corrosion or rust on the tank indicate that it may need replacing.

· Inefficient heating

Older tanks are often less efficient, resulting in increased fuel consumption and higher heating bills.

· Exposure to extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures can be catastrophic for domestic oil tanks, especially if they’ve been exposed to frost and snow. You can arrange an annual inspection of your tank by an OFTEC Registered Technician. They will be able to tell you if your tank needs replacing.

In the UK, there are regulatory requirements for oil tanks. New tanks must meet minimum standards set by building control. However, there are no mandatory requirements for upgrading a non-compliant tank.

Replacing your tank with a modern, more efficient model can lead to long-term cost savings. The average cost to replace an oil tank in the UK is between £800 – £4000.