Owners warned over oil tank tipping

25/06/2008

Oil tanks should not be tipped to increase the supply of fuel to central heating systems, homeowners have been warned.

The Housing Executive has noted that as the credit crunch bites into finances, homeowners may be tempted to tip their oil tanks in order to maximise the fuel they contain, reported the Mid Ulster Mail.

However, doing this can cause damage to the oil tank, as well as forcing dirt into the pipes and affecting the oil burner.

Michael Dallat, Housing Executive district manager, said although people may be trying to save money, the damage caused to oil tanks can result in needless expense.

"On some occasions, the oil burner may have to be replaced or the pipe exiting the tank is fractured resulting in loss of the contents of the tank and an additional cost to the tenant in replacing the oil," he told the newspaper.

Last week, oil tank owners in Neath Port Talbot were warned to lock their systems to discourage thieves, according to the Neath Guardian.