Age charity urges heating oil customers to check their tanks
Age Scotland is urging heating oil customers to get their tanks checked before winter sets in.
According to charity spokesperson Greg McCracken, cited by stornowaygazette.co.uk, the organisation has already had number of enquires from concerned residents and expects this number to rise as the cold nights set in.
He said: "Early autumn is very much the time that consumers should be checking their systems and filling up with oil, as it tends to be cheaper at this time of year before demand rises."
Mr McCracken added that "spending a little time and money on maintenance now could avoid the cost of replacing your tank in the future, as well as the cost of cleaning up any spills".
The charity also wants to it clear that consumers generally have to organise boiler servicing themselves. Just because they buy their fuel from a particular heating oil supplier, it doesn't mean they have a responsibility to the tank itself. This guidance extends to the pipework connecting the tank.
On ageuk.org.uk, the charity gave examples of several tell-tale signs when there might be an issue with a boiler. It said that a strong smell of solvent, petrol or oil inside or outside the home could indicate a leak. Black stains or dead plants and grass around the tank could similarly indicate a leak.
Getting insurance - or checking over one's policy - for tank-related breakdowns or maintenance came highly recommended.
Date: 01.10.2012
Author: Chris Taylor
