If you store heating oil or any other types of fuels and oils on your property in smaller storage containers and tanks. Adverse weather, such as high winds and heavy rain, especially in areas with poor drainage, can raise additional concerns

Obviously, it largely depends on where you live in the UK, with coastal, more exposed areas and those on higher ground more susceptible to the winds. Those in low-lying lands, areas with poor drainage and those close to water sources such as rivers and streams could be more susceptible to flooding risks

However, as was seen in 2018’s “Beast from the East”, no matter where you live in the UK, it makes sense to put precautions in place to protect your heating oil against all possible scenarios.

Heating oil containers and flooding

Flooding danger to oil containers is not something that is debated frequently. However, the consequences of leaks owing to flooding are important for the householder. In the event of flooding, your central heating oil tank might start to drift.

This can cause piping attached to the container to break and cause a spillage. Not only do householders possibly lose their central heating oil, but they might be confronted with a big bill for the clean-up required.

In view of this, householders must:

  • Ensure they have a decent level of household insurance. This should cover not just central heating oil loss but also the cost of cleaning up leaks.
  • Check that the central heating oil container is secured properly. So, in the event of a flood, it cannot drift.
  • Ensure central heating oil containers are not positioned close to wells, shafts, springs or waterways.
  • Ensure heating oil containers are constructed on appropriate supports that will raise the tank above the possible flood level.

Central heating oil containers in extraordinary winds

Extraordinary winds have likewise been a feature of the climate in wintertime 2014. Consequently, heating oil customers should understand the possible risk to their central heating oil containers. Although unlikely, particularly if the container is filled, tanks can be removed from their stands by strong gales. Additionally, the container may be hit by hovering objects such as a tree.

    If you’ve had issues and are now looking for a new oil storage tank, call our fuel experts on 0330 123 3773 to discuss your options for upgrading your current oil storage tank.