The wet and cold conditions in winter, or the warm days and cooler nights in spring and summer, can cause issues inside your tank. These changes increase the chance of your fuel being contaminated with water, particulates and bacteria. Each of these can cause damage to the fuel system and machinery.
Regularly Check Fuel
You should regularly check your fuel for any of the following signs :
Cloudy fuel
Blocked/Sludgy Filters
Rusting on or inside of your storage tank
Machinery Problems/breakdowns
Have Your Tank Cleaned
We recommend having your tank professionally cleaned at least once a year by an accredited OFTEC specialist.
After a long period of time, water and sludge will eventually build up in an oil tank. Sludge is a result of water condensing on the inside of the tank upon changes in temperature. As water is heavier than oil, it collects on the tank’s bottom. Water deposits represent a good place for growing various bacteria. Heating oil sludge can be a mix of bacteria, dirt and debris and tends to build up in tanks where oil has been stored for a longer period of time.
If you ever run low on fuel, it is possible for the sludge that is situated on the bottom of the tank to be pulled through your boiler system.
Check The Condition Of Your Tank
It’s a good idea to check your tank on a monthly basis. Just like servicing a car, your tank can become unsafe between services. Our drivers will always carry out a visual inspection before a delivery which you can do too. Some things to check for:
Cracks- Check for any small or large cracks in the Body of your tank.
Discolouration - if the tank is turning white or fading due to sun exposure it may be time to replace your tank
Bulges- check for any bowing where the tank is bulging.
Smell - If you are able to smell kerosene strongly you may have a tank leak.
Stains - If there are any stains or wet patches around your tank this would suggest a leak.
Corrosion- Check all pipework for any rust or damage.
We recommend having your tank professionally cleaned at least once a year by an accredited OFTEC specialist.
Spotting these issues early means your tank can be repaired or replaced before your fuel is contaminated or has leaked.
Use Additives
Additives can be added to fuel to extend its storage lifespan and clean up dirty fuel systems, storage tanks and boilers.
Farming vehicles must be protected during harvest but also when the season finishes too. Using the correct lubricant/oil/grease will prevent corrosion, extend machinery lifespan and cut costs on replacement parts.
Take Action Immediately
The fuel from your tank can be uplifted and cleaned so that all the contaminants are filtered out and the remaining fuel can go back to your tank. However, in some cases, the fuel cannot be cleaned as it is too contaminated, in this case the tank should be emptied, cleaned and filled with fresh fuel.
If you would like a top up of fuel or for more information, please give our office a phone on 01563 525215.
