Heating oil tank summer maintenance tips

Keep your tank topped up

Even though heating oil is usually associated with colder months, it's worth considering your supply during the summer. With prices currently more volatile due to global factors, trends can be less predictable, but demand is typically lower during the warmer months. Topping up your tank now could help you stay prepared ahead of winter, and keeping it full can also reduce the risk of sludge build-up.

It's easier than ever to keep on top of your heating oil supply, thanks to automatic top-up services like BoilerJuice Connected. This type of service monitors your tank levels and arranges deliveries when needed, helping to remove the hassle of reordering. By signing up, you can benefit from competitive local pricing without needing to manage it yourself and also reduce the risk of running out.

Keep water out of your tank

Warmer weather often brings higher humidity, which can impact your heating oil tank. Changes in temperature and moisture levels can increase the likelihood of condensation forming inside the tank, particularly if it isn't full, as the extra space allows moisture to build up more easily.

Water in your heating oil can lead to more serious issues over time, including the formation of sludge and the growth of bacteria within the tank.

When water mixes with heating oil, it creates the ideal condition for bacteria to grow, leading to sludge build-up. This sludge can block filters and pipes, causing disruption to your heating system, often only becomes apparent when you first switch your heating back on in colder weather.

Check your seal caps

After each oil delivery, it's important to check that vent and fill caps are secure. These caps help prevent air, water, and debris from entering the tank - reducing the risk of sludge build-up, boiler issues, and potential oil leaks that could harm your property and the environment.

Schedule your heating oil tank maintenance

An annual inspection of your heating oil tank by a qualified OFTEC engineer is recommended, ideally scheduled during the summer after peak winter use. The engineer will check for damage and ensure all pipe connections are secure and clean, often as part of a routine boiler service - though it’s worth confirming this in advance.

Regular maintenance helps reduce the risk of oil spills, which can be costly to clean up and harmful to the environment.

How to prevent water getting into your oil

• Keeping your tank topped up helps minimse the space where moisture can develop over the summer, reducing the risk of condensation forming.
• Using additives like BoilerMax can help prevent sludge build-up and keep your heating system running efficiently.
• Check your tank regularly for cracks or damage to help prevent water getting in or oil leaking out.
• Get a water trap to drain off any water that develops in your tank.

To check for moisture in your tank, you can use a simple water detection paste. If water is present, a removal sponge can help absorb it without affecting your oil.

In cases where there is more severe sludge or bacterial growth, a specialist's treatment can be added to the oil to neutralise it. To help prevent such issues, you can reduce the risk of moisture build-up by keeping your tank as full as possible and using an additive with each fill.