Tank Questions

Why do I keep running out when my sight gauge/electronic sensor says I have got oil?

You should check your tank and sight gauge regularly to ensure that you have oil. Sight gauges usually have a valve which when opened allows the level in the sight gauge to reflect the level of oil in the tank. If this valve is shut then the sight gauge is not reflecting the true tank level. Thus the tank can run out whilst the gauge shows oil. For electronic sensors there may be a fault with the probe or transmitter, contact your local distributor.

Should my sight gauge be left open or closed?

Whenever possible a sight gauge should be left closed. Although this means that the reading on the gauge does not reflect the level of oil in the tank until it is opened, it also means that if for some reason the sight gauge is detached, the oil is still trapped inside the tank.

What is a bunded tank?

A bunded tank is a tank that is contained within a surround that is capable of holding 110% of the storage capacity of the tank. A bunded tank prevents any oil spill from the tank polluting the surrounding area.

Do I need a bunded tank?

If you are a commercial oil user, or the fuel is stored on a commercial site, then it must be stored in a bunded tank. If you are a domestic oil user, you will not normally be required to bund your tank if it has a capacity of less than 2500 litres. However all oil users - including domestic users - will need to have a bunded tank should they not pass the OFTEC risk assessment form (TI/133P). Please contact our office for more information if in any doubt.

How do I find out the capacity of my tank?

If your tank is plastic look for the model number which is normally located at one of the ends. If your tank is metal then measure the dimensions (H x W x L). Once you have this information, contact our office and our staff will be able to work out the exact capacity.