Why the oil tank gets inspected as part of a boiler service
The tank is part of the fuel system, not a separate item, so a thorough oil boiler service includes a visual check of its condition alongside the burner itself.
Oil tank inspection explained in plain terms
The engineer looks for cracking or UV degradation in plastic tanks, corrosion in steel tanks, secure and correctly bunded siting, and signs of leaking at the outlet valve or sight gauge. Water or sediment settling at the tank base is also noted, since it is drawn into the fuel line and filter over time and is a common contributor to burner starting problems if left unaddressed.
Practical notes on oil tank inspection
- Plastic tanks are checked for UV cracking and general condition
- Steel tanks are checked for corrosion, particularly at the base
- Bunding and siting are reviewed against current guidance
- Water and sediment at the tank base are noted if present
- Sight gauges and outlet valves are checked for leaks
Relevant registrations
- Gas Safe registered for domestic gas boiler work
- OFTEC registered for oil boiler work
- Worcester Bosch Accredited Installer
Questions we get asked
- Does tank age matter?
- Plastic tanks in particular have a finite service life and become more prone to cracking as they age, so older tanks are checked more closely.
- Is a bunded tank a legal requirement?
- Requirements depend on the tank's size and proximity to watercourses or boundaries, and an engineer can advise whether a particular installation meets current guidance.
Where we deal with this
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Services that cover this
Sorted quickly: oil tank inspection
Put simply: A tank in poor condition undermines even a perfectly serviced boiler, which is why it is checked as part of the same visit rather than treated separately.
For gas work, use a Gas Safe registered engineer; for oil work, use an OFTEC-registered technician.
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