DIY Doctor UK DIY Forums

Hallo

The attached shows our oil tank filter valve after about 12 years in salt laden coastal environment. In the end the shut off lever totally seized and there were oil flow problems and it was a pig to change it for a new one by tilting the whole tank away from the valve when nearly empty. The filter bowl needed hitting with a big hammer in a vice to get freed from the valve body and needless to say the nylon mesh filter was clogged with black slime.

Any advice welcome re how to avoid a repetition - eg is it best to change the tank filter at every boiler service? - bothered about the possibility of oil leaks if we disturb the filter bowl seal, but maybe they usually seal up again okay?

Hi jdboyd
Due to the environment you tank is in I would suggest you fit a stainless steel ball type valve direct onto the tank outlet. You can then replace the filter and it's housing with ease.
It is not normal for the filter to contain sludge. I assume your tank sloped away from the outlet - have you drained some oil from the drain valve to check for water/debris in the oil?
Regards S

Thanks for the guidance!