How To Deal With An Oil Tank Leak
Oil tanks are crucial to the heating system for many homes in the UK, especially in rural areas. They store heating oil, providing warmth throughout the colder months. While oil tanks are generally reliable, they can occasionally develop leaks. No matter how small, an oil tank leak can pose serious risks to the environment, your property, and even your health.
If you have spotted a crack or, worse, signs of a leak, don’t delay—an oil spill needs to be addressed quickly and correctly to prevent further damage to the environment and your property.
Leaks can occur at any point in your heating system. Look out for signs such as an unexplained increase in your oil consumption, a strong smell of oil around the tank, or visible oil stains on the ground near the tank.
This post will explain the essential steps to take if you notice a leak in your oil tank. By following these guidelines, you can help protect your home, prevent environmental damage, and ensure the issue is dealt with safely and in accordance with UK regulations.
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS TO TAKE WHEN YOU NOTICE AN OIL TANK LEAK
If you suspect you’ve got a leak, there are a few steps you can take to help reduce further damage:
- Stop the oil supply – switch off your supply at the source.
- Clear the area – ensure children, pets, or anyone else who doesn’t need to be there are well out of the way.
- Locate the leak – find where the leak is coming from and take measures to reduce the flow (e.g., by placing a bucket underneath)
- Prevent the spread- use absorbent materials such as cat litter or sand to stop the oil from spreading further.
- Assess how much oil has been lost.
- Contact the authorities – if you suspect that oil has contaminated any controlled water sources (e.g., drains, waterways, rivers, etc.), contact the relevant environmental agencies (SEPA in Scotland or the Environment Agency if elsewhere in the UK) and your local authority.
- Notify your insurance provider – contact your home insurance provider and notify them of any potential damage.
- Have the remaining fuel removed by a fuel supplier.
- Keep a record of what you have done.
HOW TO PREVENT OIL TANK LEAKS
Dealing with oil tank leaks can be stressful, time-consuming and costly. As the saying goes, prevention is always cheaper than cure. To ensure your tank remains in top condition and to catch any warning signs before they become more significant problems, there are a few things you can do:
- Regular oil tank checks can help you spot any cracks or bulges that need attention. You can do these checks yourself, and our post has some helpful tips about oil tank servicing.
- Book an annual oil tank service. While it is your responsibility to check many things yourself, it is also essential to have your tank inspected annually by OFTEC-registered engineers.
- Install a bunded oil tank. If you don’t have one installed already, bunded oil tanks have a second inner layer that offers extra protection.
LEAKING OIL TANK FAQs
HOW CAN I TELL IF MY OIL TANK IS LEAKING?
Look out for signs such as an unexplained increase in your oil consumption, a strong smell of oil around the tank, or visible oil stains on the ground near the tank. These can all indicate a leak from either your tank or somewhere in your heating oil system.
WHAT CAUSES AN OIL TANK LEAK?
Many factors can cause an oil tank to leak. The age of the tank and environmental considerations such as heat and humidity can all cause wear and tear. Seasonal temperature changes can cause expansion and contraction, leading to cracks, bulges and splits.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF AN OIL SPILL AT HOME?
Oil spills at home can be extremely dangerous. No matter how small, an oil tank leak can pose serious risks to the environment, your property, and even your health.