When fuel prices are high, it can be tempting to put off ordering more fuel and wait for prices to fall. We've even heard reports of homeowners tipping or raising their tanks to try and get the last few litres out.
However, these approaches can create much bigger problems than they solve, potentially leading to breakdowns, damage to your tank and costly repairs, risk of pollution, and not forgetting your own personal health and safety.
Here are five reasons why it's best to keep your tank topped up and never try to move or tip it:
1. Disturbing water and debris
Over time, changes in temperature cause condensation to form inside a tank, which ultimately collects at the base. If not extracted annually, the presence of water, particles and other contaminants can lead to the formation of sludge or biological growth. Moving a tank will disturb any dormant rubbish at base and it can get taken downstream towards the boiler. Whist a filter may stop particles, it will not stop water entering and seizing a burner fuel pump, which can result in both inconvenience and a costly repair.
2. Fuel tanks are extremely heavy
Even when empty, fuel tanks can weigh hundreds of kilograms. Trying to move or tip a tank can result in serious injury.
3. Moving a tank can cause damage
A tank containing fuel is not designed to be moved. Shifting it can damage the tank itself and increase the risk of leaks on fuel pipes and fittings.
4. Raising one end of the tank is unsafe
Under no circumstances attempt to raise a tank at one to access the last remaining fuel. Fuel tank installations are designed to correctly support tank bases. Raising tanks in a non-uniform fashion will exerts uneven stress, which can rupture tanks and cause pollution.
5. Inaccurate fuel reading
Fuel gauges are calibrated on an assumption that the tank is level. Raising a tank at one end may give a false impression that there is more fuel in the thak there is which increases risk of running out of fuel altogether.
Plan ahead this winter
The best way to avoid running low on fuel is to plan ahead. Ordering before your tank reaches a low level gives you more time to shop around, compare prices and arrange delivery before colder weather arrives.
If you've allowed your fuel levels to become very low, or have moved or tipped your tank, we recommend having it checked by an OFTEC registered technician and following their advice.