Spring is the best time to give your oil tank a little bit of TLC

Spring is the best time to give your oil tank a little bit of TLC. This year is already marching by and temperatures are beginning to rise again.. It’s an exciting time of year, the evenings are longer, the garden is blooming and holidays are just around the corner.

But, it’s important to remember that winter will inevitably come back, along with cold mornings and dark nights. Luckily, you have your oil fired central heating to keep you warm through those darker months. Now is the best time to take steps to make sure your oil heating system is in tip-top condition. While you’re planning some enjoyable fun days this summer or just some rest and recoup, don’t forget to give your oil tank a little summer TLC too.

Here are a few simple tasks to complete during the spring or summer:

1. Make sure your tank is full of oil

Although stocking up with oil in the summer might not sound like it makes much sense, it is essential. If you leave your tank only part-full in hot weather, the gap between the fuel and the tank skin will form condensation. This can corrode the inside of your tank and significantly decrease its lifespan.

Condensation build-up also causes bacteria to grow on the surface of the water. This can contaminate fuel and cause sediment to collect in the bottom of your tank. This can lead to a system breakdown.

There is a financial incentive to fill up your oil tank during the summer too. Oil prices fluctuate daily and these changes are generally driven by demand, this makes sense that less oil is used during the warmer months, so you can expect there to be more competitive prices available.

2. Carry out a full tank inspection

Your oil heating system performance is reliant on your oil tank being in good condition. The warmer months are ideal to carry out a full check. Visually inspect your tank for damage, check seals and caps and look for signs of leakage. You should also carry out necessary oil tank exterior painting to protect your tank from rust.

If you do suspect any problems, get an OFTEC registered professional in to carry out the necessary repairs. This means you’ll have peace of mind that your system is operating effectively and safely when it’s needed in the coming winter. There can also be a longer wait to get an appointment with an OFTEC installer when the seasons change and more people fire up their heating and realise they have a problem. Ask your installer to carry out a full service to pick up any problems you may have missed.

3. Do a security assessment

If you haven’t already, make sure you assess the security of your oil tank this summer. Oil is expensive and oil theft is sadly on the increase.

Consider installing CCTV, tank locks, alarms and siting security lighting. Or try adding some gravel around the tank, as this makes a noise when walked on.

Devoting a little time to looking after your oil tank during the spring and summer can avoid big problems in the winter. It is also far more pleasant carrying out tank checks and maintenance on a sunny day than it is in cold weather.

Your oil tank works hard for you during the winter. Taking a little time out from your spring or summer plans can ensure your tank is around to keep you warm for many winters to come.