Heating oil theft can be a headache for most homeowners. When heating oil prices rise, the value of this oil stored in tanks increases, which makes it a potential target for thieves. It’s important to note that oil shortages can affect heating systems, causing losses or even leaving homes without heat. Don’t fret! There are several tricks that will help you to prevent such an unpleasant scenario from occurring. These tricks will secure your home heating oil, and it won’t get stolen, hopefully. This article will give you all the tips and tricks you need to safeguard your heating oil in the best possible way. It also details various techniques to accomplish this.
Fitting Defences in the Form of Security Lighting and Fencing
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to deny thieves access to your oil tank is to improve the visibility of the tank itself. A few motion sensor lights around the tank may scare away would-be thieves, as not many people are willing to venture into brightly lit areas. In addition, securing the tank with proper fencing or barriers can also help. Consider installing a lockable enclosure or a solid fence around the tank to prevent unauthorised access. These physical deterrents, combined with adequate lighting, can significantly reduce the chances of theft.
Securing Your Tank with Locks
Another good wayof protecting heating oil storage is using lockable caps on fill points, such as p69 lockable flanges or any other common filling point that conceals oil. Many tanks provide locking fill caps that prevent access from unwanted entry. When using a lock on the filling point, make sure it’s not a cheap, flimsy one. In addition, securing any access hatches or valves with padlocks will also help to prevent the theft of oil by siphoning it directly from the tank.
Opting for a Bigger and Better Tank
When selecting an oil tank, you might consider opting for a larger and more secure model. Look at the 2000l oil tank for example. This one not only provides more storage space but may also come with additional safety features. Bunded tanks, which have a “tank within a tank” design, offer another layer of protection from leaks and theft. This added protection will reduce the risk of environmental damage.
Install an Oil Level Monitor
Technology has become a valuable tool in preventing oil theft. By installing a remote oil level monitoring system, you can keep track of your tank’s oil levels at all times. This technology is one of the most recent and efficient solutions. Such devices can send alerts to your phone or email if there’s a sudden drop in the tank’s oil level, allowing you to respond quickly if someone is tryingto steal it. Many of these monitors also come with useful applications that track usage limits and ensure compliance. Having the ability to monitor the tank in realtime offers an accurate way to detect theft before a significant amount of oil is taken, thanks to advancements in technology.
Strategic Tank Placement
According to UK regulations, oil tanks should be positioned at a safe distance from buildings, boundaries, and vegetation to minimize fire hazards. While the tank should not be obscured by structures or plants, it should be placed in a location that is not easily visible from the road or surrounding areas. Avoid positioning the tank near high-traffic areas where it might attract attention. By placing your tank in a more secure, less accessible area while adhering to safety guidelines, you can reduce the risk of theft without compromising fire safety or compliance with regulations.
Implement these measures, and you’ll significantly reduce the chances of heating oil theft. You’ll also being ensuring that your fuel supply is secure at all times. Securing the tankand utilising technology are just a few ways to protect your heating oil investment.
