Preventing heating oil tank water contamination

How can water get into your oil tank?

Very wet or hot weather can create water issues for your tank as rain and condensation can lead to water contamination in your oil. The most common reason for water contamination is small cracks in your tank or accidentally not fastening the cap on properly. This can cause moisture into the air in heating oil tanks which can cause condensation.

Why is having water in your oil tank an issue?

Water can harm your AGA or boiler without you knowing until it is severely damaged. Knowing your oil tank has been contaminated by water is hard to recognise as it sinks to the bottom of the oil. To make sure you don’t get an expensive surprise, BoilerJuice.com are going to share some tips on water contamination.

Tips on how to prevent water contamination in your oil tank include:

• Get an OFTEC registered engineer to check your tank at least once a year.
• Check your tank and pipes for signs of wear and tear such as cracks, corrosion, oil stains or any other damage.
• Check around your oil tank for any evidence of leaking. If you find a leak and live in Britain, you can call the UK Pollution Hotline who will provide you with guidance on what to do next.
• Check your oil tank walls. If the walls are bulging it may suggest that they been weakened which may mean you need to replace your tank.
• If you have a bunded tank (a tank with a secondary wall) check to make sure there are no leaves or water clogging the wall.
• Check your tank’s lid and make sure it is secure. To make sure your tank lid is secure it should be level and not loose.
• Make sure there are no overgrown plants near or over the oil tank as plants may drip water into the tank after it rains. To prevent moisture and water in your tank place some water removal sponges at the bottom of the tank.

How to find out if you have water in your oil tank?

Frequent testing for water is a great way to reduce the chances of having issues with your AGA or boilerThe easiest way to find out if your tank contains water is to buy water finding paste. All you need to do is to grab a long stick and place the paste to the bottom, then push the stick to the bottom of the oil tank. After a few minutes have passed pull the stick back to surface. If the paste has changed colour there is water in your tank.

How to remove water from your tank

If you find water in your tank it’s important to remove it.  Have a look at the options below on how to remove water from the tank.

Oil Tank Water Removal Sponge

An oil tank water removal sponge will absorb the water in your tank. This sponge will remove the water without absorbing your heating oil.

Heating Oil Water Trap

There is a filter that allows you to easily drain off any water collected from your heating oil called a heating oil water trap. When you see any trapped water in the filter bowl simply open a valve to drain the water.

Finally, the best prevention against water contamination is to keep an eye on your tank all year round. A cost effective way to check whether you have water in you tank is to use a colour paste which can easily detect water. These tips will reduce the chances of a hefty repair bill coming your way.