How long does oil last?

sgun

We have a 2500ltr tank so could top up again at 19.45p per litre. Just wondering if it would last ok for a year? Our supplier said it woukd be fine for 8/9 months but wondering if anyone had any definite knowledge. Our tank is not exposed to any weather (sheltered all round and shaded). 

matelodave

Without proper maintenance, bacteria can grow in your heating oil. This forms a sludge that corrodes your oil tank and pipes. An unusual smell is an indicator of bacterial growth.

Regular water removal and oil filtration will help prevent your heating oil going bad. You can also use additives to reduce the risk of bacterial growth.

Kept in the proper conditions, heating oil should remain usable for around 10 years.

Here are a few tips - https://harlequinplastics.co.uk/how-to-maintain-your-oil-tank-during-summer/ note the one about keeping the tank well filled to reduce the space for condensation to form.

greatcrested

I have a 2500 tank too and find I use about that much eah year. I either top up once a year or twice with smaller amounts (like now) when prices dip.

I find it hard to believe prices will drop further than the current 20 ppl ish, but then I said that to myself when I put 1000 in at 26 ppl!

sgun

Thanks both, I didnt know it was better to keep tank fuller rather than emptier (we never go below 2.5 on the Watchman anyhow). We use around 2200 a year so I'll probably top up now. I bought 500l at 26p a couple of weeks back, didnt think it would go lower than 25p, just goes to show! I'm furloughed and husband is self employed so it gets a bill out of the way for later in the year when our finances will probably be a bit ropey.

Davesnave

greatcrested said:

I find it hard to believe prices will drop further than the current 20 ppl ish, but then I said that to myself when I put 1000 in at 26 ppl!

You were lucky. I put 800l in when that idiot in the White House sent the Iranian terrorist geezer a cruise missile up the jacksy....

47p/l !!! A little knowledge can be a dangerous thing.

sgun

We got 14.9 in the end. Topped up 700l so tank is now full. Crazy. Haven't looked at the prices since then. It makes up for the other times in the last year we have topped up when prices were at their peak.