Frequently asked questions
to heating oil tanks
How do you clean a rainwater tank?
The tank is opened, completely emptied and all residues inside are removed.
Do I need to filter rainwater?
If the rainwater tank is lower than the connections for use (usually the case) by a submersible pump.
The rainwater is filtered as it enters the tank. But be careful! – Rainwater is not drinking water!
How does the rainwater get out of the rainwater tank?
As the rainwater tank is usually lower than the consumer connections, the water is pumped using a pump.
Do you need to excavate the garden for an underground rainwater tank?
Excavation is required for the installation of a new tank. This work is not required when converting an existing tank.
What is the cost of maintaining a rainwater tank?
Suspended matter such as soot particles from the air enter the tank through the rain. To ensure the water quality, we recommend having the tank pumped out and cleaned every 3 to 5 years.
What is the cost of maintaining a rainwater tank?
Visit the rainwater new tank systems section on this website.
How can a heating oil tank be converted into a rainwater storage tank?
What designs and installation options are there for new heating oil tanks?
What is the function of a leakage warning device and how is its functionality tested?
The function and the necessary checks of the leak warning device are explained in our video.
Link: https://sago.ch/service-und-zubehoer/#leckwarnger%C3%A4te
What is the procedure for complete tank dismantling?
Our video illustrates the complete tank dismantling process.
What are the benefits of heating oil filtration?
The special filtration using filters removes even the finest particles from the heating oil. This is a key process to ensure burner performance and prevent damage, as no contaminated oil is returned to the tank. Filtration is usually carried out in the course of decommissioning. In the event of heavy contamination, our equipment manager will recommend this measure on site.
What corrosion protection does a tank coating offer and how is it applied?
Our video provides information on the corrosion protection function of the tank coating and its manufacture. Link: https://sago.ch/sanierung/#beschichtung
How is a manhole cover replaced and what sizes/options are available?
Take a look at the videos on the subject of manhole covers.
What should I do if the tank compartment is rejected during an inspection?
A complaint indicates cracks or damage to the drip tray, which serves as secondary protection. The tightness of the tank compartment is a legal requirement. This prevents contamination of the groundwater by leaking water-polluting liquids. We support you with the clarification. A water test can be used to clearly determine the tightness status.
You can find detailed information here: https://sago.ch/sanierung/#tankraumsanierung
How are underground (single-walled) tanks retrofitted?
The legal deadline for retrofitting all single-walled underground tanks with a double-walled safety system expired at the end of 2014. For this purpose, a precisely manufactured inner shell is integrated into the existing tank. A permanent vacuum is created between the two walls. This vacuum serves as a continuous monitoring system to check the tightness of both walls.
Under what conditions must a tank system be refurbished?
The legal responsibility of the owner prohibits the refilling of defective tank systems as long as defects have not been rectified. Our expertise lies in adapting your system to the applicable standards. The most common reasons for the need for refurbishment are corrosion damage to double-walled underground tanks, some of which are more than 50 years old, and tank linings that are more than 30 years old. Small plastic tanks can also lose stability with increasing age.
What are overfill and overfill prevention devices?
Both safety devices have the function of automatically terminating the filling process when the maximum fill level is reached. The filling safety device is a modern, electro-optical probe. The mechanical overfill protection is a more rudimentary alternative. Its use is only recommended in de-energized environments or in existing systems in older properties.
Link: https://sago.ch/service-und-zubehoer/#abf%C3%BCllsicherungen
What is the function of a burst safety device?
Our video provides a detailed explanation of burst protection.
What additional costs can arise during a tank overhaul?
Costs for material replacement and repairs may be incurred, but these will always be invoiced after consultation with the customer.
What services are included in the price of the tank overhaul?
The price includes the following work and services:
- Arrival with inspection vehicle and trailer – Set up workplace
- Temporary heating set up for the duration of the inspection work (heating and boiler work as usual)
- Pumping out and temporary storage of oil up to 15,000 liters. Removal of the sludge including its environmentally friendly disposal (depending on tank size up to 100 liters)
- Cleaning and drying out the tank
- Meticulous inspection of the cleaned tank for any seizures (corrosion) or other leaks
- Apply or add protective coating to uncoated tanks, then dry (only for steel tanks)
- Checking the drip tray or protective structure and the tank fittings
- Leak test of the filling and venting system
- Closing and filling the tank system
- Function test and final check
- Audit report and notification of completion to the competent authority
Seals, material replacement and repairs are not included in the price.
Do parking spaces have to be reserved in front of the property for the revision?
Depending on the local space conditions, parking spaces for two cars are normally occupied. Parking spaces near the filler neck are ideal. If the tank inspection vehicles have to be parked on public land (blue zones or public parking lots), please inform us urgently. This will enable us to apply for any necessary permits from the city or municipality.
Does the tank have to be empty for an inspection? How much residual oil can be removed?
We will be grateful if the remaining stock is low. We can temporarily store residual quantities of up to 15,000 liters in our largest trailers. This quantity is pumped out at no extra cost to the customer, filtered on request and refilled into the tank.
I have received an official summons – what steps do I need to take now?
Leave the responsibility to us. We will be happy to advise you personally and provide you with a customized tank inspection offer. A tank inspection with internal cleaning minimizes the risk of malfunctions in your heating system and helps to maintain its value. In addition, a tank inspection with internal cleaning fulfills your duty of care and maintains your insurance cover in the event of a claim.
Link: https://sago.ch/heizoel/#revision
What does my legal duty of care and personal responsibility include?
Your legal duty of care as a plant owner is defined in Article 3 of the Water Protection Act (GSchG). Accordingly, you are obliged to take all necessary measures to avoid adverse effects on bodies of water and groundwater. In concrete terms, this means that you are responsible for regularly checking the tank system for defects (such as leaks) and immediately repairing any damage. The performance of a tank inspection with internal cleaning by a specialist company, recommended at least every ten years, represents the recognized fulfilment of this duty of care.
What is the recommended interval for carrying out a tank inspection?
We recommend carrying out a tank inspection, including internal cleaning, every ten years. However, the actual necessity always depends on the inspected condition of the system
Link: https://sago.ch/heizoel/#revision
Is the tank inspection mandatory? Does the tank need to be cleaned?
The inspection is required by law for tank installations in groundwater zones S/A/Z. The owners of these properties receive an official notice. For all other installations, the inspection of the storage tank is strongly recommended every 10 years as part of personal responsibility.
What benefits does a tank overhaul with internal cleaning offer me?
Carrying out an inspection with internal cleaning significantly increases the operational reliability of the tank system and thus makes an important contribution to maintaining the value of your entire heating system.
Link: https://sago.ch/heizoel/#revision
Where can I get information about my heating oil tank?
Please contact the relevant cantonal office directly. See list of cantonal offices for environmental protection in Switzerland We will be happy to carry out the necessary clarifications on your behalf by arrangement (does not apply to the canton of Berne).
What is the maximum amount of oil that can be removed from the tank without additional costs?
The maximum quantity that can be removed free of charge is 15,000 liters. We need precise information about your current oil level in order to be able to correctly plan the appropriate tank trailer. The easiest way to determine the oil level is to use a dipstick.
When is the appointment confirmation sent after the order has been placed?
The date is primarily determined by you as the customer. If possible, we will make the final arrangements at least one week before the appointment. Ideally, contact is made by telephone or e-mail.
What should I do if I want to replace the underground tank with a small tank system?
We advise you to evaluate both the renovation of the existing underground tank and the installation of a new small tank. The cost differences are often less than expected. We will be happy to provide you with quotes for both solutions.
Is it possible to place small tanks for an oil heater in the garage or in the shelter?
Heating oil must be stored in a place protected from light with stable, low temperature fluctuations. The tanks (used) must not be older than ten years. It is advisable to have the installation carried out by a specialist company.
What options are there for decommissioning my heating oil tank?
There are three options available: Formal decommissioning, decommissioning including dismantling or conversion to a rainwater tank (only for underground tanks).
Does the decommissioning of my small tank have to be carried out by a specialist company?
Yes, every officially approved tank, regardless of its dimensions, must be decommissioned by a qualified specialist company. Specialist companies are companies with the necessary equipment and trained personnel. https://sago.ch/de-ch/Heizoel/Tankrevision/Gesetzliche-Grundlage
Can an overhaul be carried out in winter? What heating interruptions should I expect?
An inspection can also be carried out in winter. At your request, we can carry this out without interrupting the heating output. For this purpose, we create a provisional heating system free of charge (provisional oil supply to the heating system).
Why is a tank overhaul with internal cleaning recommended?
Heating oil is an organic product and is therefore subject to a natural ageing process. Temperature fluctuations during the year cause condensation to form which combines with oil sediments. Even today, certain heating oils already contain bio-oil. All of this then collects on the bottom of the tank. This sometimes quite aggressive oil sludge can lead to corrosion in the tank. With larger quantities – which is rather rare – there is also the possibility that it can enter the heating burner via the product line.
With an internal tank cleaning, we guarantee you 10 years against rusting through of the tank, which also removes oil sludge and condensation. The result: your heating system will work more reliably for years to come.
to diesel oil tanks
Can I also place the small tanks in a garage or shelter?
Installation is possible in principle. However, the critical requirement is to ensure access so that the refueling process takes place exclusively at a sealed transshipment point. The legal regulations for this must be complied with.
Why do you recommend a tank inspection with internal cleaning for diesel oil?
As an organic product, diesel oil is subject to natural ageing. Temperature fluctuations lead to the formation of condensation water, which combines with oil sediments and organic oil components (which are added today). This aggressive oil sludge collects at the bottom and can cause corrosion in the tank. Large quantities of sludge/water can also have a negative effect on combustion in the engine. We guarantee ten years of protection against rusting through with internal cleaning, as oil sludge and condensation are removed. To summarize: Clean storage prevents annoying and often costly engine damage.
Why don’t I receive a new request from the Water Protection Office?
Since 1.1.2007, the offices for tank installations in water protection zone B no longer send out individual requests for inspections. The publication is exclusively official. The full responsibility for regular maintenance and liability in the event of damage therefore clearly lies with the system owner. We recommend carrying out the internal cleaning every 10 years in order to maintain the prescribed regularity and thus the insurance cover.
to gasoline tank systems
Until what year did you have to install a flame arrester?
The deadline for installation ended in 2017. The relevant regulations can be found in the SUVA information sheets.
Can tank inspections at filling stations also be carried out at night?
In the event of high operating volumes or logistically demanding conditions, we can move the inspections to the night by arrangement.
to rainwater tanks
Installing a rainwater tank in the basement or in the garden?
Integration into the building structure (cellar) is associated with a permanent risk. Although leaks can also occur in underground tanks, their consequences outside the cellar are much less severe.
How big should a rainwater tank be?
The dimensioning depends primarily on the planned area of application (garden irrigation, toilet flushing, washing machine). A tank volume of 5,000 liters or more is generally advisable, although individual requirements may also call for larger systems.
