Oil Tank Maintenance Guide

Date Published: 23/04/2025

If you rely on an oil tank for heating your home, keeping it in good shape is a must. A neglected tank can lead to leaks, expensive repairs, and even possible environmental damage – not good. Whether you’ve had your tank for years or a heating oil tank is new to you, this guide will walk you through how to keep it in good condition.

Key takeaways

• Why oil tank maintenance matters
• How often should an oil tank be serviced?
• Different oil tanks and how to look after them
• How to keep your oil tank in top shape
• The best time of year for maintenance
• How much does oil tank maintenance cost?
• Finding the right people to look after your oil tank

Why oil tank maintenance matters

Oil tanks are pretty tough, but they're not invincible, and as with most things they need a bit of care. Without proper maintenance, they can develop small cracks, rust, or water build-up, all of which can lead to leaks or, worse, a complete failure. A little maintenance goes a long way. It keeps your fuel flowing smoothly, helps you avoid expensive repairs, and reduces the risk of leaks.

How often should an oil tank be serviced?

You should have your oil tank professionally inspected at least once a year. Regular checks help ensure everything’s working as it should and can catch small issues before they develop into costly problems later down the line.

Keep an eye out for the following key indicators that there could be a problem

• Sudden drops in oil levels (could signal a leak)
• Damp patches or oil stains around the base
• Rust or corrosion (steel tanks)
• Cracks or bulging (plastic tanks)

Different oil tanks and how to look after them

Not all oil tanks are built the same. They have different maintenance needs depending on what they’re made of and where they're stored

• Bunded vs single-skin tanks – A bunded tank has two layers, better protecting it from leaks. A single-skin tank has just one layer and may need extra eyes on it over time.

• Plastic vs steel tanks – Plastic tanks are lightweight and don’t rust, but they can crack over time. Steel tanks are sturdier but can corrode if not looked after.

• Indoor vs outdoor tanks – Outdoor tanks face more wear and tear from the weather, especially in colder months.

Whatever type of tank you have, regular checks and the right care will keep it in good shape for longer.

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How to keep your oil tank in top shape

Wondering how you can keep your oil tank in tip-top condition? These key checks will help keep your oil tank in a healthy condition

• Give it a once-over – Every few months, take a quick walk around your tank and check for cracks, bulges, or rust.

• Keep it clean – Water and sludge can build up inside, leading to blockages. A professional clean every few years helps prevent this.

• Watch for leaks – Oil stains or damp patches around the base could mean trouble. If you spot anything, call a professional out as soon as possible.

• Test the isolation valve – This lets you shut off the fuel supply in an emergency. Make sure it’s working properly whenever you remember.

If anything looks off, don’t ignore it. Get a professional to check it before it turns into an expensive headache.

The best time of year for oil tank maintenance

Your oil tank needs year-round care, but timing matters. Warmer months are best for inspections since your tank is likely less full, and system engineers are likely to have more availability.

How much does oil tank maintenance cost?

Regular maintenance costs a little upfront but can help you avoid a bigger repair or full replacement later. All figures mentioned are estimates, and we don’t carry out these checks or repairs ourselves, so you’ll need to speak to a qualified engineer or technician.

• Annual inspection – Around £100–£200, depending on the service

• Professional cleaning – Every 3–5 years, costing roughly £300–£500

• Repairs for minor leaks – £100–£500

• Replacement oil tank – £1,000+ (but preventable with proper care!)

If your tank is old and needs repairing more often than not, it might save you more in the long run if you replace it altogether.

Finding the right people to look after your oil tank

Keeping your oil tank in good shape is easier when you have the right professionals for the job.

Here’s what to look for:

• A reliable heating oil supplier – High-quality heating oil to keep your tank healthy.

• Qualified engineers – Always use a professional for inspections, repairs, and cleaning.

Get reliable heating oil delivery with Your NRG

Make sure your tank stays full and your home stays warm with reliable heating oil delivery straight to your door. Need expert advice or a scheduled delivery? Order now or speak to our experts today.