Frequently asked questions
to heating oil tanks
How is a rainwater tank professionally cleaned?
The tank is opened for inspection, completely emptied and all sediment residues are meticulously removed.
Is rainwater filtration mandatory?
Yes, the water is already pre-filtered when it enters the tank. Important safety note: Rainwater is not approved for direct drinking water use!
What technology is used to extract the water?
As the tank is typically positioned lower than the extraction points, water extraction is ensured by a specialized pump.
Does an underground rainwater storage tank require earthworks?
Yes, this is necessary for new builds. No excavation work is required when converting an existing tank.
How much maintenance does a rainwater tank require?
As rain brings in very fine particles (soot), we recommend pumping out the tank every 3 to 5 years and carrying out a thorough cleaning to ensure the water quality in the long term.
What storage systems are available for rainwater?
How can I convert a heating oil tank into a rainwater tank?
How do you convert a heating oil tank into a rainwater storage tank?
The leak warning device: function and test cycle.
Watch the video on the subject of leakage warning devices.
Link: https://luethi-tank.ch/service-und-zubehoer/#leckwarnger%C3%A4te
The tank disassembly process in detail
Watch the video on the subject of tank dismantling.
Heating oil filtration: What are the benefits of strategic maintenance?
The special filtration (GAF filter) eliminates even the smallest dirt particles. This prevents damage and burner failures caused by contaminated oil. The main application is typically during tank decommissioning.
Tank coating: How is corrosion protection applied?
Watch the video on the subject of tank coating. Link: https://luethi-tank.ch/sanierung/#beschichtung
Manhole cover replacement: options and implementation.
Take a look at the videos on the subject of manhole covers.
What follows a complaint about the tank compartment during the inspection?
A complaint indicates cracks/damage in the drip tray. As the room must be legally watertight, we carry out a water test to finally determine the watertightness. We are happy to support you in the renovation.
The innovative renovation of underground tanks. We use a tailor-made inner shell. A continuous vacuum is created between the shell and the tank wall, which acts as a permanent leakage monitor for both walls.
You can find more information here: https://luethi-tank.ch/sanierung/#tankraumsanierung
How are buried tanks refurbished?
By the end of 2014, all single-walled, underground storage tanks had to be fitted with a double-walled safety system. In this installation, a custom-made inner shell is produced on the existing tank. A permanent vacuum is created between the tank wall and the inner shell. The vacuum takes over the task of continuously checking both the tank wall and the inner shell for leaks.
When is tank refurbishment absolutely necessary?
Defective systems do not receive a filling permit. Primary indicators: Corrosion damage to old double-walled underground tanks, ageing of tank liners (30 years and older) and loss of stability in plastic/small tanks.
What is the difference between the filling safety device and the overfill safety device?
Both systems automate the stop of the filling process. The filling safety device is the modern, electro-optical probe. The overfill protection is mechanical and a rudimentary alternative for existing systems.
Link: https://luethi-tank.ch/service-und-zubehoer/#abf%C3%BCllsicherungen
How does a burst safety device work?
Watch the video about the burst protection.
What unforeseen costs can arise during the revision?
Any costs for material replacement and necessary repairs will always be settled by prior agreement between you and the tank inspector.
What does the service package of a tank overhaul include?
The price includes:
- Approach and set up the workplace.
- Construction of a temporary heating system to ensure operation.
- Pumping and temporary storage of up to 15,000 liters of oil.
- Removal/disposal of up to 100 liters of sludge.
- Cleaning, detailed corrosion control.
- Testing of tub/fittings.
- Audit report and official notification.
Exclusive: Material replacement/repairs.
What is the maximum amount of residual oil permitted?
The tank does not necessarily have to be empty. We can temporarily store up to 15,000 liters of oil in special trailers. This quantity is pumped out, filtered if required and refilled at no extra cost.
How many parking spaces are required for a tank overhaul?
As a rule, we require two parking spaces near the filler neck. If you are using public land (blue zones), please inform us in good time so that we can obtain the necessary permits.
I have received an official notification – how do I react now?
Transfer the responsibility to us. The inspection with internal cleaning fulfills your duty of care, helps to maintain the value of your tank system and activates your insurance cover.
Link: https://luethi-tank.ch/heizoel/#revision
The legal duty of care: What is my duty as the owner?
According to Article 3 of the Water Protection Act, you are obliged to check the system regularly for defects and leaks and to repair any damage immediately. An inspection by a specialist every ten years is recommended to fulfill this obligation.
The optimum maintenance cycle: How often is interior cleaning necessary?
We generally recommend carrying out a tank inspection with internal cleaning every ten years.
Link: https://luethi-tank.ch/heizoel/#revision
Is there an inspection obligation for heating oil and diesel tanks?
Yes, the inspection is required by law for properties in the sensitive groundwater zones S/A/Z. For all other systems, we recommend a ten-year cycle (personal responsibility).
What are the benefits of a tank overhaul?
The inspection with internal cleaning significantly maximizes the operational reliability of your system and guarantees the long-term value retention of your heating infrastructure.
Link: https://luethi-tank.ch/heizoel/#revision
Where can I get information about my heating oil tank?
Contact the relevant cantonal office. See 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 upper limit for free oil removal?
Maximum 15,000 liters. Precise stock information is essential. Ideally, measure the oil level with the dipstick.
We have placed the order with you, when will you inform us about the date of the revision?
As the customer, you determine the timing as a priority. The ideal time for us is
– to carry out the revision before refilling.
– if you as the customer are at home. If this is not possible, we will find a solution.
– if you give us a time period – so we can schedule as optimally as possible.
In principle, we always schedule at least one week before the date if possible. Ideally by telephone or e-mail.
I would like to replace my underground tank with a small tank system. How should I proceed?
We recommend that you check both the renovation of your underground tank and the new small tank system. The price differences are often not as great as often assumed. We will be happy to offer you both options.
I would like to install an oil heating system. Can I also place the small tanks in the garage or in the shelter?
Heating oil should be stored in a dark place with as little temperature fluctuation as possible. Second-hand tanks should not be older than 10 years. It is worth having the installation carried out by a specialist company.
I want to take my heating oil tank out of service. What options are open to me?
Decommissioning, decommissioning including dismantling or, in the case of underground tanks, conversion to rainwater tanks.
Is the decommissioning of the small tank by a specialist company mandatory?
Yes, every officially approved tank – regardless of the material or size – must be decommissioned by a certified specialist company. https://luethi-tank.ch/de-ch/Heizoel/Tankrevision/Gesetzliche-Grundlage
Revision in winter: Do I risk the heating failing?
No, the revision is also possible during the cold season. We provide a powerful temporary heating system at no extra cost.
10 years have passed since the last tank inspection. Why have I not received a new request from the Water Protection Office?
Since January 1, 2007, owners of tank installations in water protection zone B no longer receive a request for tank inspection from the respective water protection office. However, the request is officially published (gazette). The responsibility for regular maintenance of the tank system and liability in the event of damage therefore lies entirely with the owner of the system.
We recommend that you have the tank inspection with internal cleaning carried out every 10 years, as before, to maintain operational safety and preserve its value. If the intervals are longer, the prescribed regularity is no longer guaranteed. This may result in a reduction in insurance cover.
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 install small tanks (diesel tanks) in the garage or in the shelter?
Yes, the upstream planning of the access road is crucial: the “small filling station” must be positioned in such a way that the vehicle can only be refueled in a sealed transfer area. Clear technical regulations apply here.
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 should the tank be overhauled with internal cleaning?
The natural ageing process of diesel oil (condensation, sediment, organic components) creates a corrosive sludge on the bottom of the tank. We eliminate this risk by cleaning the inside of the tank. As proof of our process reliability, we guarantee you 10 years of protection against rusting through. The result: a significant increase in system reliability over the coming years.
The 10-year deadline has been reached – where is the official revision request?
The Water Protection Office has already discontinued the direct delivery of requests for installations in water protection zone B as of January 1, 2007. The notification is only made officially. Full liability and the initiative for revision are the responsibility of the plant owner. We recommend the 10-year cycle to ensure insurance cover.
to gasoline tank systems
When did the installation obligation for the flame arrester end?
This regulatory obligation ended in 2017. For details, please consult SUVA leaflets 1 and 2.
Do you also allow service station inspections at night?
We offer the strategic option of an extended overhaul during the night if the filling station is at maximum traffic or if logistical challenges are tight.
to rainwater tanks
Installing a rainwater tank in the basement or in the garden?
Installation in the building involves a calculable but real risk. The problem can also arise with an underground rainwater tank. However, its effects are substantially less critical than in your basement.
How big should the rainwater tank be?
The dimensioning depends on your requirements (garden irrigation, toilet flushing, washing machine). We consider tanks of 5,000 liters or more to be a sensible basis – or larger, of course, depending on your requirements.