Preparing your fuel tank for winter weather

Here at Compass Fuel Oils, we are leading fuel oil professionals, delivering a range of high quality fuel oils across the UK, in bulk and barrels, within just 1-3 days. We also offer fuel tank hire too. But what are the key steps when preparing your fuel tank for winter weather?

What are the important steps for preparing your fuel tank for winter weather?

There are a number of steps you can take to help prepare and protect your fuel tank throughout winter. This can be essential for keeping your fuel clear of contamination and ensuring that your supply is safe throughout the cold and wet winter months. The important steps include:

  • Checking the oil levels
  • Securing your fuel tank
  • Taking steps to prevent water contamination
  • Checking for condensation
  • Planning regular maintenance checks throughout winter

Checking the oil levels can help prepare your fuel tank for winter

Low levels of oil in your fuel tank can be potentially problematic for your fuel as this can result in sludge forming. When the tank is then refilled, the sludge at the bottom of the tank will be disturbed and this can clog up and block filters, resulting in a number of problems for your fuel and the connected equipment. Blocked filters generally lead to performance issues and a lack of fuel efficiency.

It’s important to secure your fuel tank for winter protection

It is always essential that your fuel tank is stored according to legal guidelines and requirements, but in the winter months this can harder to achieve, particularly as strong winds and bad weather can move fuel tanks that are almost empty, or have a low level of fuel. As a result, not only should you fuel be topped up, but you may need to take additional measures to secure this in the centre of the base.

In addition, you will also need to ensure that your fuel tank is protected and safe from the winter weather. This means storing your fuel tank somewhere safe and protected from the elements and it also means making sure that the base is fully supported.

Preventing water contamination is essential in winter

Water contamination in a fuel tank can be a serious and significant problem. If water does enter the fuel tank then this can cause an exponential growth in bacteria and contribute to the formation of sludge. As a result, this can lead to problems with blocked fuel lines and filters, which would require a professional team to resolve. As such, its important to make sue that there are no cracks or damage to your fuel tank before the wet and cold weather truly kicks in.

Prepare your fuel tank for winter by checking for condensation

Condensation is another way that water may contaminate your fuel and so its important to check for condensation by dipping the fuel and having this tested by a professional.

Keep up with the maintenance throughout the winter months

Finally, to keep your fuel safe and protected through the winter months you should prepare a maintenance list to ensure regular checks for your fuel tank. These should include checking for:

  • Cracks in the body of the tank
  • Tank discolouration
  • Tank bulges
  • Stains or wet patches around the tank
  • Corrosion

For more information or advice, get in touch with the professionals today, here at Compass Fuel Oils.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Deliveries

  • What areas do you deliver to?

    We deliver to most regions in the UK. To check if we service your area, please use our delivery postcode checker or contact our support team 01772 619 461 

  • What is the minimum order quantity for delivery?

    The minimum order quantity varies depending on the fuel type. For most orders, it is 500 litres, but smaller deliveries may be available upon request for example barrels of 205l fuel.

  • How long does delivery take?

    Standard deliveries typically take 3–5 working days. We also offer express delivery options for urgent orders.

  • What should I do if my tank is overfilled or damaged during delivery?

    Please report any issues to our customer service team immediately. We will investigate and resolve the issue promptly.

  • Can I change or cancel my delivery?

    Yes, you can modify or cancel your delivery by contacting us at least 24 hours before the scheduled delivery time.

  • Do you charge a delivery fee?

    Standard delivery is included in the fuel price for most orders. Express deliveries or orders below the minimum quantity may incur additional fees.

  • What types of vehicles are used for delivery?

    We use a fleet of fuel tankers suitable for residential, commercial, and agricultural deliveries. For restricted access locations, we may send a smaller vehicle.

  • What if my delivery is delayed?

    While we strive to deliver on time, delays can occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If your delivery is delayed, we will notify you as soon as possible.

  • What should I do to prepare for a delivery?

    Ensure your tank is easily accessible, remove any obstructions, and secure pets or gates. If your tank has a lock, please make sure it is unlocked.

  • How will I know when my delivery will arrive?

    You will receive a notification with an estimated delivery date once your order is confirmed. On the day of delivery, our driver may contact you directly.

  • Do I need to be present during the delivery?

    In most cases, you don’t need to be present as long as your tank is accessible and ready for filling.

  • What happens if I’m not available during the delivery?

    If you’re not available, our driver can deliver the fuel to your tank as long as it is accessible and safe to do so. If access is restricted, we will contact you to reschedule.

  • Can I schedule my delivery?

    Absolutely. You can choose a preferred delivery date during the order process. We’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

  • Do you offer same-day or next-day delivery?

    Yes, same-day and next-day delivery options are available in select areas. Additional charges may apply.

Payments

  • What currency are payments processed in?

    Payments are processed in GBP (British Pounds). If you are paying from outside the UK, your bank may apply conversion fees.

  • Is my payment information secure?

    Absolutely. We use industry-standard encryption and secure payment gateways to protect your payment details.

  • Can I request an extension on my payment due date?

    Yes, payment extensions may be available upon request. Please contact our billing team to discuss options.

  • Do you offer refunds?

    Refunds are processed in accordance with our refund policy. Please contact our support team for further assistance.

  • How can I update my payment details?

    You can update your payment details by contacting our customer service team. 

  • Can I split my payment across multiple methods?

    Unfortunately, we do not support splitting payments across multiple methods at this time.

  • What should I do if my payment is declined?

    If your payment is declined, double-check your payment details and try again. If the issue persists, contact your bank or our support team for assistance.

  • How do I receive my invoice or receipt?

    Invoices and receipts are sent to your registered email address or by letter.

  • Is there a surcharge for using a credit card?

    No, we do not charge additional fees for payments made using a credit card.

  • Do you offer credit terms for businesses?

    Yes, we provide credit terms for eligible business customers. Please contact our sales team to discuss account setup and terms.

  • Can I set up a direct debit or recurring payment?

    Yes, you can set up direct debit or recurring payments to ensure timely and hassle-free billing.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, direct bank transfers. For business customers, we also offer account-based billing.

  • I paid for my order by card, I received less fuel than I paid for due to the tank being full, what happens now?

    We have a couple of options available, we can refund your payment card, this takes 3-5 working days from the date we process your refund. Alternatively, we can leave the credit sat on your account and adjust this amount from the payment for your next order.