Oil Tank Cleaning
Enquire NowAt Industrial Tank Cleaning Services, we provide professional oil tank cleaning services for commercial, industrial, and agricultural clients — helping you maintain safety, efficiency, and compliance across your fuel systems.
Oil residues can settle at the base of tanks, regular cleaning prevents blockages and reduces strain on pumps and filters.
Since sludge and water can degrade oil quality and increase corrosion risk, removing them helps extend tank life and minimise maintenance costs.
Contact our team for a no-obligation oil tank cleaning quote.
Why is it Important to Clean an Oil Tank?
Cleaning an oil tank is important because sludge and water can accumulate at the bottom over time, leading to blocked filters, pump damage, and poor fuel combustion.
If left untreated, sludge buildup can cause system failures, fuel contamination, or even corrosion and leaks.
In backup systems, dirty oil can prevent generators or burners from working in emergencies.
As prevention is more cost-effective than repairs, regular cleaning protects both the tank and the systems it serves.
How much does it Cost to Clean an Oil Tank UK?
The average cost of oil tank cleaning in the UK ranges from £350 to £1,500+.
The cost of cleaning an oil tank depends on tank size, contamination level, fuel recovery needs, and access because each job is site-specific.
What are the Benefits of Oil Tank Cleaning?
Oil tank cleaning offers several crucial advantages, especially for domestic and commercial users relying on heating oil or fuel storage. The key benefits of oil tank cleaning include:
Improved Fuel Efficiency - Regular cleaning removes sludge, water, and sediment build-up, allowing your system to burn cleaner and more efficiently, reducing energy costs.
Extended Tank Lifespan - Removing corrosive contaminants prevents internal damage and rust, significantly prolonging the life of your oil tank.
Reduced Risk of Blockages and Breakdowns - Clean tanks ensure smooth fuel flow, minimising the risk of clogs in pipes and fuel filters, and preventing costly system failures.
Environmental Protection - Properly maintained tanks are less likely to leak, helping prevent soil and groundwater contamination and ensuring environmental compliance.
Accurate Fuel Monitoring - Clean tanks provide precise fuel level readings, aiding in better fuel management and preventing unexpected shortages.
Compliance with UK Regulations - Scheduled oil tank maintenance can help meet UK environmental and health & safety standards, especially for commercial sites.
Early Problem Detection - Cleaning includes inspections that can reveal structural issues or faults early, allowing for preventative action before major repairs are needed.
Optimise performance, safety, and environmental compliance by scheduling professional oil tank cleaning regularly—essential for any UK property using oil-based fuel systems.
What Types of Oil Tanks Require Cleaning?
Oil tank cleaning services apply to domestic heating oil tanks, commercial and industrial diesel tanks, generator day tanks, underground oil tanks, and above-ground bulk storage tanks because all these systems can accumulate residue.
Whether steel or plastic, all tanks that store fuel oils are susceptible to contamination and require periodic maintenance.
As oil use is widespread across sectors, cleaning is a critical part of ongoing facility management.
How is Oil Tank Cleaning Carried Out?
At Industrial Tank Cleaning Services, we provide professional oil tank cleaning services, ensuring your fuel storage system runs safely, efficiently, and in full regulatory compliance. Here’s how the oil tank cleaning process is carried out:
Initial Inspection & Risk Assessment: Our technicians begin with a full inspection to assess the tank’s condition, check for contamination, corrosion, or damage, and determine the safest cleaning method. We ensure all health & safety and environmental protocols are followed.
Fuel Removal & Temporary Storage: We safely extract any remaining oil and store it in a secure, clean holding tank to prevent waste. Contaminated fuel can be filtered and polished if suitable for reuse.
Sludge & Sediment Extraction: Using industrial vacuums and specialised equipment, we remove built-up sludge, rust flakes, water, and microbial growth from the base and walls of the tank.
Internal Tank Cleaning: High-pressure jetting or manual cleaning (depending on tank type and access) ensures all internal surfaces are free from debris and residues. This step restores the tank’s original storage integrity.
Final Inspection & Testing: We carry out a post-cleaning inspection to verify cleanliness, check for corrosion or leaks, and confirm the tank is structurally sound. Any faults are reported with recommendations.
Fuel Refill & System Reconnection: Cleaned or filtered oil is reintroduced to the tank, and the system is safely recommissioned. We ensure all connections are tight and operational.
Can Oil be Reused After Tank Cleaning?
Heating oil or fuel can often be reused after tank cleaning, but it depends on its condition.
At Industrial Tank Cleaning Services, we assess and handle fuel professionally during our oil tank cleaning services to ensure minimal waste and maximum cost-efficiency.
Is Oil Tank Cleaning Safe?
Oil tank cleaning is safe when carried out by trained professionals because it involves handling flammable materials, confined spaces, and potentially hazardous waste.
Our technicians follow safety procedures under the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH).
Personal protective equipment (PPE), gas monitoring, and ventilation systems are used as standard.
Since risk management is a legal requirement, safety is prioritised throughout the process.
How Often should an Oil Tank be Cleaned?
Oil tanks should be cleaned every 2 to 5 years, or more frequently if signs of sludge, water, or poor fuel quality appear because contaminants build up over time and affect performance.
Older oil tanks, rarely used systems, or those exposed to temperature fluctuations may need more regular maintenance.
The tank cleaning frequency depends on use and fuel type, inspections help determine the right schedule.
What are the Signs that an Oil Tank Needs Cleaning?
Knowing when to clean your oil tank is crucial to avoid costly repairs, fuel contamination, and system failures. Here are the key signs that your oil tank needs cleaning:
Sludge Build-Up or Blocked Filters - If you notice blocked fuel filters or reduced flow, it’s likely due to sludge accumulation in the tank, restricting oil movement and clogging components.
Fuel Quality Issues - Dark, cloudy, or foul-smelling oil may indicate contamination from water, rust, or microbial growth – a clear sign your tank needs professional cleaning.
Boiler or Burner Malfunctions - Frequent system breakdowns, difficulty starting, or inconsistent heating performance often point to dirty fuel or blocked supply lines caused by tank residue.
Water Contamination or Condensation - Presence of water or condensation inside the tank promotes bacterial growth and corrosion, accelerating sludge formation and fuel degradation.
Visible Rust or Corrosion - Internal or external corrosion can lead to leaks and structural failure. Cleaning helps reveal these issues early before major damage occurs.
Unusual Noises or Smells - Gurgling sounds, unusual odours, or vibrating pipes can indicate trapped air or sludge disrupting the fuel supply.
Routine Maintenance Overdue - If it’s been 2–5 years since your last clean, schedule an inspection. Older tanks, especially metal ones, require regular servicing to remain safe and efficient.
What Happens to the Waste Removed from the Tank?
Waste oil, sludge, and water are removed and transported by licensed waste carriers to authorised treatment or disposal facilities because these materials are classified as hazardous under UK law.
All movements are tracked with consignment notes, and disposal is carried out in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Since improper disposal can result in fines, certified waste management is included in all services.