Frequently asked questions
to heating oil tanks
How do we clean a rainwater tank?
The tank is opened, emptied and the residues are completely removed.
How is the water extracted from the rainwater tank?
Usually by a pump, as the tank is usually lower than the tapping points.
Does rainwater need to be filtered?
Yes, the rainwater is filtered as soon as it enters the tank. Attention: Rainwater is not drinking water!
Is excavation necessary for an underground rainwater tank?
Yes, for a new tank. No excavation is necessary when converting an existing tank.
How costly is the maintenance of a rainwater tank?
Rain washes the air, which brings fine particles (soot) into the tank. We recommend pumping out and cleaning the tank at regular intervals.
Which rainwater tanks are available?
How can a heating oil tank be converted into a rainwater tank?
How is a heating oil tank installed? What new build options are there?
What is a leakage warning device and how is it tested?
Take a look at our video on the subject of leak detectors.
Link: https://forsterag.net/service-und-zubehoer/#leckwarnger%C3%A4te
How is a tank dismantled?
Watch the video on the subject of tank dismantling.
What are the benefits of heating oil filtration?
The special filtration removes the smallest dirt particles. This prevents burner failures/damage caused by contaminated oil. Filtration is usually used during tank shutdowns.
Tank coating: What are the benefits and how is it applied?
Watch the video on the subject of tank coating. Link: https://forsterag.net/sanierung/#beschichtung
How is a manhole cover replaced? What options are available?
Take a look at the videos on the subject of manhole covers.
What should I do if the tank compartment has been inspected?
A complaint means: The collection tray (tank compartment) has cracks or damage. According to the law, the compartment must be watertight. We carry out a water test to definitively determine the tightness. We are happy to support you.
You can find more information here: https://forsterag.net/sanierung/#tankraumsanierung
How do you renovate buried tanks?
A dimensionally accurate inner shell is used for this purpose. A permanent vacuum is created between the tank wall and the inner shell. This vacuum continuously checks both walls for leaks.
When is a tank refurbishment necessary?
Defective systems must not be filled – defects must be rectified. The main causes are Corrosion damage in old double-walled underground tanks, ageing inner tank shells and small tanks/plastic tanks that lose stability with age.
What is the difference between filling and overfill protection?
Both stop the filling process automatically when the tank is full. Filling safety devices are modern, electro-optical probes. Overfill prevention devices (mechanical) are a more rudimentary variant that is used when there is no electricity or in older properties.
Link: https://forsterag.net/service-und-zubehoer/#abf%C3%BCllsicherungen
What is a burst safety device?
Watch the video on the subject of burst protection.
What additional costs are incurred for a tank overhaul?
Any costs for material replacement and repairs may be incurred by agreement between the customer and the tank inspector.
What is included in the price of a tank overhaul?
The following services are included in the price:
- Approach
- Set up your workstation
- Construction of a temporary heating system (heating/boiler remain in operation)
- Pumping and temporary storage of oil up to a certain quantity
- Removal and disposal of sludge
- Cleaning and meticulous inspection of the tank for corrosion
- Checking the drip tray and fittings
- Audit report and notification to the authorities
Not included: Material replacement and repairs.
Does the tank have to be empty for the inspection? What is the maximum amount of residual oil possible?
We temporarily store up to a certain amount of oil in our trailers. This quantity is pumped out at no extra cost, filtered if required and then refilled.
Do parking spaces have to be blocked off for the tank inspection?
Normally, we require two parking spaces near the filler neck. If you are using public land, please inform us urgently so that we can apply for permits.
I have received a summons – what do I have to do now?
Transfer the responsibility to a specialist company. The inspection (with interior cleaning) fulfills your duty of care and maintains your insurance cover.
Link: https://forsterag.net/heizoel/#revision
What does my duty of care entail?
According to Article 3 of the Water Protection Act, you as the owner of the system must regularly check the system for defects and leaks and rectify any defects immediately. An inspection with internal cleaning by a specialist at regular intervals fulfills this obligation.
How often does a tank inspection have to be carried out?
We generally recommend tank inspection with internal cleaning at regular intervals.
Link: https://forsterag.net/heizoel/#revision
Is a tank inspection mandatory?
Yes, it is required by law for properties in groundwater zones S/A/Z. For all other installations, inspection at regular intervals is recommended (personal responsibility).
What are the benefits of a tank overhaul?
The inspection with internal cleaning increases the operational reliability of your system and helps to maintain the value of your heating system.
Link: https://forsterag.net/heizoel/#revision
Where can I get information about my heating oil tank?
Contact the responsible cantonal office. See the list of cantonal offices for environmental protection in Switzerland. We will be happy to carry out clarifications on your behalf (except for the canton of BE).
What is the maximum amount of oil that can be removed without additional costs?
Maximum 15,000 liters. Precise information on the stock is important. It is best to measure the oil level with the dipstick.
We have commissioned you with the revision. When will you inform us of the date?
You primarily determine the time. We plan at least one week before the appointment (by phone or email).
Replace underground tank with small tank system: What to do?
Check both options: Renovation of the underground tank and new construction of a small tank system. We will be happy to offer you both options.
Can I place a new oil tank in the garage or in the shelter?
Heating oil must be stored in a dark place with low temperature fluctuations. It is essential that you commission a specialist company for the installation.
What options do I have when deactivating the heating oil tank?
Decommissioning, decommissioning incl. dismantling or for underground tanks: conversion to rainwater tank
Does the small tank (plastic tank) also have to be decommissioned by a specialist company?
Yes, every officially approved tank must be decommissioned by a specialist company, regardless of its size. You can find the legal basis here: https://forsterag.net/de-ch/Heizoel/Tankrevision/Gesetzliche-Grundlage
Is an inspection possible in winter? Does the heating fail?
Yes, the revision is also possible in winter. We create a temporary heating system at no extra cost.
When is an interior cleaning due?
Heating oil is an organic product and therefore ages naturally. Temperature fluctuations generate condensation, which combines with oil sediments and the bio-oil components of modern heating oils.
This aggressive sludge collects at the bottom of the tank and causes corrosion. In rare cases, it can enter the heating burner via the product line.
Your safety guarantee: With an internal tank cleaning, we guarantee you 10 years of protection against rusting through of the tank. Oil sludge and condensation are completely removed. The result: your heating system will work more reliably for years to come.
to diesel oil tanks
Can I install diesel tanks (small tanks) in the garage or in the shelter?
Yes – but the most important thing is that you are aware in advance that the “small filling station” is accessible in such a way that the vehicle to be refueled can be refueled in a tight space. There are clear regulations for this.
Diesel oil should also be stored in a dark place with the lowest possible temperature fluctuations. The installation of such a system requires a permit. As a specialist company, we are happy to support you.
Why is a tank overhaul with internal cleaning advisable?
Heating oil ages naturally. Temperature fluctuations form condensation, which combines with sediments and the bio-oil components of modern heating oils. This aggressive sludge collects at the bottom and leads to corrosion in the tank. Internal cleaning removes sludge/condensation. We guarantee protection against rusting through. Result: A more reliable heating system.
The deadline has passed – why have I not received a notice of inspection from the Water Protection Office?
Since 1.1.2007, the Water Protection Office no longer sends out direct requests for installations in water protection zone B. The request is only made officially. The responsibility and liability lies entirely with the system owner. We continue to recommend inspection with internal cleaning at regular intervals to ensure operational safety and value retention. Longer intervals may reduce the insurance cover.
to gasoline tank systems
By when did the flame arrester have to be installed?
Until 2017, see SUVA leaflet 1 and leaflet 2.
Are service station inspections also possible at night?
In the case of heavily frequented filling stations or difficult space conditions, we are also happy to offer inspections at night.
to rainwater tanks
Where should the rainwater tank be installed?
Installation in the building, e.g. in the basement, always involves a certain risk. Although leaks can also occur in underground tanks, the effects are much less problematic underground.
What is the optimum size for a rainwater tank?
The size depends on your needs (garden watering, toilet flushing, washing machine). Tanks of a certain size are advisable – or larger, depending on use.
