Every year, when temperatures drop and demand for heating oil rises, delivery schedules can become busier and severe weather can create additional challenges. That’s why Oilmaxx encourages eligible customers to sign up for our Cold Weather Priority Scheme during the summer months—well before winter arrives.

Planning ahead now can provide valuable peace of mind when the cold weather returns.

Why Think About Winter in Summer?

When winter arrives, heating oil demand often increases significantly. Combined with icy roads, storms, and shorter daylight hours, this can put pressure on delivery networks nationwide.

By registering for the Cold Weather Priority Scheme during the summer, you’ll already be on our priority list before the busy season begins.

It’s a simple step that can help ensure your household receives additional support when it matters most.

What Is the Cold Weather Priority Scheme?

The Cold Weather Priority Scheme helps identify vulnerable households that rely on heating oil so they can be prioritised during periods of severe weather or exceptionally high demand.

The scheme is designed to help protect customers who may be more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather, particularly older residents who rely on a consistent heating oil supply to keep their homes warm and comfortable throughout winter.

Who Can Register?

You may be eligible to join the scheme if:

• You are aged 75 or over
• Someone in your household is aged 75 or over
• You rely on heating oil as your primary source of home heating
• You or a member of your household has health conditions that make cold weather particularly challenging

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, our team will be happy to help.

Benefits of Registering Early

Priority During Severe Weather

Registered customers can be identified quickly should extreme weather conditions impact normal delivery schedules.

Peace of Mind Before Winter

Instead of worrying about winter preparations when temperatures begin to fall, you can relax knowing your registration is already in place.

Free and Simple to Join

There is no cost to register, and the process only takes a few minutes.

Support for Rural Homes

Many rural households rely entirely on heating oil during the winter months. Early registration helps us better plan and support the customers who need us most.

Additional Ways to Prepare for Winter

Summer is also the ideal time to:

• Check your tank for signs of wear or damage
• Arrange any maintenance work before autumn
• Monitor your fuel levels regularly
• Avoid leaving orders until your tank is nearly empty
• Consider topping up before winter demand increases

A little preparation now can help prevent unnecessary stress later in the year.

Register Today and Stay One Step Ahead

The best time to prepare for winter isn’t when the first frost arrives—it’s during the summer months while demand is lower and planning is easier.

If you or someone in your household is eligible, register for Oilmaxx’s Cold Weather Priority Scheme today and enjoy greater peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for whatever winter brings.

For more information or to register, contact the Oilmaxx team today.

Winter starts in summer. Register for Oilmaxx Cold Weather Priority today.

GET IN TOUCH

The post Get Winter Ready This Summer appeared first on Oilmaxx.

The event brought employees together for a day filled with delicious homemade bakes, friendly competition and, most importantly, fundraising for a fantastic cause. Team members took part in a bake sale, quiz and bingo, all while raising awareness and vital funds for Macmillan’s incredible work supporting people living with cancer.

As part of the Oilfast Group, OilMaxx was delighted to contribute to the event’s success. The generosity shown by colleagues across the group demonstrated the strength of our shared commitment to supporting meaningful causes and making a positive impact beyond our day-to-day operations.

The Macmillan Coffee Morning remains one of the highlights of our fundraising calendar, bringing people together for a common purpose while creating a fun, engaging atmosphere for everyone involved.

We would like to thank everyone who baked, donated, participated and supported the event. Every contribution helps Macmillan continue providing practical, emotional and financial support to those affected by cancer.

At OilMaxx, we are proud to be part of a business that values community, teamwork and giving back. We look forward to supporting future fundraising initiatives and continuing to make a difference together.

The post OilMaxx Supports Macmillan Coffee Morning 2025 appeared first on Oilmaxx.

OilMaxx is continuing its growth journey by expanding its retail fuel network, bringing competitively priced, high-quality fuel directly to motorists across England and Wales.

Having built a strong reputation as a trusted fuel supplier to homes, farms and businesses, OilMaxx is now investing in modern forecourt locations that offer customers a convenient, reliable and cost-effective way to refuel.

The move marks an exciting new chapter for the business, strengthening the OilMaxx brand’s presence in local communities while providing motorists with greater choice at the pump.

A Modern Approach to Fuel Retail

Today’s drivers are looking for more than just fuel. They want convenience, competitive pricing and a straightforward customer experience.

OilMaxx forecourts are designed with these priorities in mind, offering easy-to-use facilities, modern payment technology and reliable access to quality fuels. By focusing on efficiency and customer convenience, OilMaxx aims to deliver a simple, hassle-free refuelling experience for drivers.

As fuel retailing continues to evolve, OilMaxx is investing in solutions that meet the changing needs of motorists while maintaining the high levels of service customers have come to expect from the brand.

Building on a Trusted Reputation

For years, OilMaxx has supplied fuel and energy products to customers throughout England and Wales, earning a reputation for dependable service, competitive pricing and customer-focused support.

The expansion into fuel retail allows the business to bring those same values directly to the forecourt sector, creating a consistent customer experience whether fuel is delivered to a home, farm, commercial site or purchased at the pump.

This retail growth reflects OilMaxx’s commitment to investing in the future while remaining focused on the communities it serves.

Supporting Local Communities

Many OilMaxx forecourt locations serve towns and rural communities where reliable access to fuel is essential for residents, commuters and local businesses.

By investing in new and existing sites, OilMaxx is helping ensure that local communities continue to benefit from convenient access to fuel while supporting local economies and transport networks.

As the network grows, the company remains committed to providing a friendly, accessible and dependable service that customers can trust.

Investing in the Future

The expansion of the OilMaxx retail network forms part of a wider strategy to strengthen the brand’s presence across England and Wales.

With ongoing investment in infrastructure, technology and customer experience, OilMaxx is creating a modern fuel retail network designed to meet the needs of today’s motorists while supporting future growth.

Whether customers know OilMaxx through home heating oil deliveries, commercial fuel supply or one of its growing number of forecourt locations, the focus remains the same: delivering quality products, excellent service and value customers can rely on.

Looking Ahead

As OilMaxx continues to expand its retail footprint, motorists can expect to see more OilMaxx-branded forecourts appearing across England and Wales.

The business remains committed to providing convenient access to competitively priced fuel while building a trusted retail brand that serves drivers, families and local communities alike.

Keep an eye out for your nearest OilMaxx forecourt and discover a fresh approach to fuel retailing.

The post OilMaxx Expands Retail Fuel Network Across England and Wales appeared first on Oilmaxx.

Whether you’re new to heating oil or have used it for years, here are some of the most common myths and what actually matters.

Myth: Heating oil is highly flammable and unsafe

This is one of the most common misunderstandings.

Heating oil (kerosene) is combustible, not highly flammable. That means it does not ignite at normal temperatures and requires sustained heat above 37 degrees Celsius before it can catch fire.

Domestic heating oil systems are also designed with safety in mind. Tanks are stored outside, built from durable materials, and installed to strict standards. When properly maintained, heating oil is a safe and controlled way to heat your home.

Myth: You will only run out of heating oil in winter

Running out can happen at any time of year.

Many homes use heating oil for hot water as well as heating, so it is still being used even when the weather is warmer. Because of this, it is easy to forget about your tank during spring and summer.

A quick check every now and again can help avoid the stress of running low when you least expect it. Some homeowners prefer to check their tank level from an app on their phone. Smart tank monitoring devices can remove the need for checking outdoor gauges or dipsticks.

Myth: You should wait until your tank is nearly empty before ordering

Leaving it until the last minute can make things more difficult than they need to be.

Ordering when your tank is very low limits your options and can turn a routine top-up into something more urgent. It also removes any flexibility around when you buy.

Keeping an eye on your tank level and topping up before it becomes a problem is a much easier way to manage your supply. Heating oil monitoring devices make this possible from the comfort of your home.

Myth: Heating oil is always more expensive than other fuels

Heating oil prices do change, as they are linked to global markets, but that does not automatically make it more expensive.

One of the key differences with heating oil is that you are in control of when you buy. You are not tied to a fixed tariff, which means you can plan ahead and top up when it suits you.

For many households, this flexibility is one of the main advantages.

Myth: Heating oil tanks leak easily

Modern tanks are designed to be durable and secure. Many are bunded, which means they have a second outer layer that acts as a protective barrier. If the inner tank were ever to fail, the outer layer is there to contain the fuel.

When properly installed and maintained, the risk of leaks is low. Like any part of your home, tanks should be checked from time to time to make sure everything is in good condition. View our 5 tank inspection tips here.

Myth: Heating oil leaves a smell in your home

Heating oil does have a natural smell, and people often assume that means they will notice it during normal use.

In reality, you should not be able to smell heating oil inside your home if your system is working properly. The fuel is stored outside, and the system is sealed.

If you do notice a smell indoors, it is usually a sign that something needs checking, such as a connection or component within the system.

Myth: Heating oil is unreliable because it is delivered

For many off-grid homes, heating oil is actually one of the most reliable options available.

It does not rely on a network connection, so you are not affected by outages in the same way as mains gas or electricity.

Reliability comes down to keeping an eye on your tank and ordering in good time. With a bit of planning, it is a straightforward and dependable system.

For those looking to simplify the system, budget payment plans can spread the cost of delivery over the year. When combined with a heating oil monitoring device, your supplier will deliver whenever your tank reach

Conclusion on heating oil myths

Many of the myths around heating oil come from outdated information or simple misunderstandings.

In reality, it remains a practical, safe and widely used way to heat homes across the UK, particularly in rural areas.

Understanding how it works, keeping an eye on your tank, and planning ahead can help you stay in control and avoid unnecessary issues.

OilMaxx provides excellent service direct from our network of local depots. If you would like to order heating oil, get in touch here.

The post Top Heating Oil Myths appeared first on Oilmaxx.

Your oil tank plays a vital role in keeping your home running, so it’s important to keep it in safe, working condition all year round.

While having your tank inspected annually by an OFTEC-qualified engineer is highly recommended, there’s a lot you can do yourself between visits to spot early signs of damage and avoid costly issues.

Regular visual checks only take a few minutes but can help prevent leaks, protect your fuel, and extend the life of your tank.

Here are five simple checks you can carry out yourself:

1. Check for Cracks, Splits, or Surface Damage

Regularly inspect your oil tank for any signs of damage such as cracks, splits, stretching, or bulging. Even if the damage only affects the outer bund, the tank must be replaced immediately to prevent leaks or contamination.

Warning signs include:

• Visible cracks or splits
• Stretch marks or bulging
• Rust, discolouration, or weeping

If you notice any of the above, contact an OFTEC-qualified engineer immediately.

2. Inspect the Outer Bund for Debris

The bund (outer protective layer) of your tank should always be clean and dry. Check regularly for any signs of:

• Water build-up
• Garden waste or leaves
• Rubbish or oil residue

Keeping this area clear ensures the bund can do its job effectively if the inner tank fails.

3. Ensure Access Points Are Secure

Make sure that all access points—such as air vents, caps, and gauges—are secure and properly fitted. This helps prevent contamination from:

• Rainwater
• Dirt and dust
• Insects or pests

A secure tank is less likely to suffer internal damage or fuel degradation.

4. Watch for Oil Stains Around the Tank

Look around the base of your tank for any signs of oil staining, damp patches, or discoloured grass or soil. These may indicate a slow leak or spill, which can pose a serious environmental risk and lead to costly clean-up operations.

Remember: Oil that leaks into the ground can contaminate groundwater.

5. Inspect External Pipework and Connections

Carefully examine all visible pipework connected to your tank. Check for:

• Signs of corrosion or rust
• Cracks or perishing
• Weeping or small leaks, especially around joints

Early detection of pipework issues can prevent fuel loss and minimise repair costs.

Need a New Tank Installation?

If your tank shows signs of wear or needs replacing, it’s important to speak with a professional. Our OFTEC-qualified heating engineers can provide expert advice and install your new oil tank safely and efficiently. Find out more on our website.

Contact your local depot to book your tank inspection today or give us a call at 03302 320 101

The post 5 Heating Oil Tank Inspection Tips appeared first on Oilmaxx.

As pressure grows around emissions, compliance and sustainability, more businesses are exploring alternatives to standard diesel. HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) is one of the most talked about options. But how does HVO vs diesel really compare in real-world use, and where does HVO actually make sense?

HVO vs diesel: what’s the difference?

The key difference between HVO and standard diesel is how the fuel is produced. Diesel is a fossil fuel refined from crude oil. HVO is a renewable fuel produced by hydrotreating waste oils and fats.

What is hydrotreating?

Hydrotreating is a refining process that uses hydrogen under high temperature and pressure to remove impurities such as sulphur, nitrogen and metals from fuels like diesel, petrol and jet fuel.

In day-to-day use, the two fuels behave very similarly. HVO is a drop-in alternative, meaning it can replace diesel without requiring major changes to vehicles or infrastructure.

Key differences at a glance:

• Feedstock: HVO is produced from renewable waste materials
• Carbon impact: HVO produces up to 90% less CO2 emissions. $$
• Compatibility: Both suitable for diesel engines (HVO as a drop-in)
• Cost: Diesel typically lower.

Using HVO in diesel engines

HVO can be used in most modern diesel engines without modification, although it is always worth checking manufacturer guidance. Because it is a drop-in fuel:

• No engine changes are usually required
• Existing storage tanks and infrastructure can be used
• It can be blended with standard diesel if needed

This makes HVO one of the simplest alternative fuels to introduce into existing operations.

Is HVO worth it for your business?

Whether HVO is worth it depends on your priorities. For businesses focused on reducing emissions, HVO offers a clear advantage. It can deliver a significant reduction in lifecycle carbon emissions compared to standard diesel, while also producing fewer NOx and particulate emissions, helping to improve local air quality.

Beyond emissions, HVO also brings a number of practical benefits. It has a longer shelf life than traditional biodiesel fuels, performs reliably in cold conditions, and is readily biodegradable, making it less harmful in the event of a spill. However, these benefits come at a higher cost per litre. HVO is often the right fit where:

• Emissions reduction is a priority
• Carbon reporting or ESG targets are in place
• Contracts require lower environmental impact
• A low-disruption solution is needed

Where cost control is the main driver, diesel will often remain the more practical choice.

Making the switch to HVO

Switching to HVO does not need to be an all-or-nothing decision. Many businesses introduce it gradually, for example:

• At a single site
• Across part of a fleet
• Within specific machinery or generators

This allows for a practical assessment of performance, cost and suitability before wider rollout.

Buying HVO fuel in the UK

HVO is available at selected forecourts, but most businesses purchase it in bulk for operational consistency. When buying HVO fuel in the UK, key considerations include:

• Reliability of supply
• Fuel quality and certification
• Delivery flexibility
• Ongoing supplier support

For most operations, consistency and service matter just as much as price. OilMaxx supplies bulk HVO through a network of local depots, helping businesses maintain reliable access to fuel with responsive, local support.

Choosing between HVO and diesel

HVO offers a practical route to reducing emissions without changing vehicles or infrastructure. Diesel continues to provide cost efficiency and remains essential across many sectors. For most businesses, the decision is not about choosing one over the other. It is about understanding where each fuel fits within your operation.

HVO is already being used across construction, transport and agriculture as a low-disruption way to lower emissions. It is not about replacing diesel overnight, but about making informed decisions based on how your business operates today and where it is heading next.

Looking at HVO for your business?

Our team of experts are here to help. Give us a call on 03302 320 101 to find out how HVO can benefit your business and how to get started, or fill in the form below and we will get back to you.

The post HVO vs Diesel: A Business Guide appeared first on Oilmaxx.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Support is delivered through your local council. Each council is responsible for assessing eligibility and distributing funds, so the process may vary depending on where you live.
• The level of support can differ by area. Some councils may offer direct financial help, while others may provide fuel vouchers or other energy-saving services.
• Apply as soon as possible. Funding is limited, so it’s important to check your eligibility and submit your application early to avoid missing out.

How to Find Out If You Qualify

If you use heating oil and want to learn more about the available support, visit gov.uk or contact your local council directly. They can provide details on the specific programs in your area and walk you through the application process.

Don’t let rising energy costs catch you off guard—see if you qualify for assistance and get the help you need it.

This targeted support can make a real difference for families who depend on heating oil throughout the year.

✔️ Support is delivered through your local council. Each council is responsible for assessing eligibility, so the process may be slightly different depending on where you live.
✔️ The level of support can differ by area. Some councils may offer direct financial help, while others might provide fuel vouchers, energy-saving services, or advice tailored to rural homes.
✔️ Apply as soon as possible—funding is limited and often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t delay if you think you might qualify.

If you rely on heating oil, it’s worth checking if you qualify. OilMaxx, a leading supplier of home heating oil in England, also offers advice and support to customers seeking government assistance or the best value on their fuel deliveries. Their team can help you navigate the process and ensure you have the information you need to stay warm and worry-free.

How to Get Started

1. Check your local council’s website for information on the Crisis and Resilience Fund and how to apply if you use heating oil.

2. Reach out to OilMaxx to ask about additional support, delivery options, or to get help with your application.

3. Gather any documentation that may help your application (such as proof of residence, heating oil invoices, or previous energy bills).

4. Submit your application as early as you can to improve your chances of receiving support.

Staying Informed and Prepared

Energy prices may fluctuate, so it’s smart to keep in touch with both your local council and your heating oil supplier. OilMaxx regularly updates customers on price changes, government schemes, and ways to save energy at home.👉 Visit gov.uk, contact your local council, or reach out to OilMaxx for more details on the latest support schemes and how you can benefit. The help is there—don’t miss out on the chance to secure assistance for your household.

The post How to Get Support If You Use Heating Oil in England appeared first on Oilmaxx.

Fuel contamination is not just an inconvenience for commercial operations. In bulk storage tanks, generators and fleet fuelling systems, contamination can lead to blocked filters, equipment downtime and costly repairs.

Understanding the different types of fuel contamination is the first step towards preventing system damage and protecting your fuel investment.

In commercial environments, fuel often sits in storage for extended periods. That increases the risk of degradation, water ingress and microbial growth. Identifying contamination early allows you to take corrective action before it affects performance.

Why fuel contamination is increasing in modern diesel

Modern diesel formulations have changed significantly over the past decade. Increased biodiesel (FAME) content and reduced sulphur levels have environmental benefits, but they also make fuel more sensitive to water and microbial growth.

FAME absorbs more water than traditional diesel. When water is present in a storage tank, it creates the ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to grow. Over time, this can result in sludge formation, corrosion and filter blockages.

For commercial fuel users, this means contamination management should be part of routine maintenance, not a reactive fix.

The main types of fuel contamination in commercial tanks

Solid contamination

Solid contaminants include dust, dirt, rust particles and other debris that enter tanks during delivery or through tank vents and seals.

These particles can cause abrasion within pumps and injectors, accelerating wear and reducing system efficiency. In high-pressure fuel systems, even small particulates can have a significant impact.

Asphaltene formation

Asphaltenes are hard, insoluble particles formed through oxidation and temperature fluctuation. They are typically microscopic but can combine into larger deposits.

In storage tanks, they often settle at the bottom and appear as dark sludge. If drawn into the fuel system, they can block filters and restrict fuel flow.

Microbial contamination (diesel bug)

Microbial growth occurs when bacteria, moulds and yeasts develop at the interface between fuel and water.

These organisms feed on components within the fuel and produce acidic by-products and sludge. Over time, microbial contamination can corrode steel tanks, degrade fuel quality and cause repeated filter blockages.

In commercial settings where fuel turnover is slow, microbial contamination is one of the most common causes of system disruption.

Water contamination

Water can enter storage tanks through condensation, leaking seals, damaged vents or delivery processes.

There are three main forms of water contamination:

Free water – Water that separates from the fuel and collects at the bottom of the tank.
Emulsified water – Small water droplets suspended within the fuel, often giving it a cloudy appearance.
Dissolved water – Water absorbed into the fuel at a molecular level, typically not visible but still contributing to instability.

While dissolved water may not immediately cause visible issues, free and emulsified water significantly increase the risk of corrosion and microbial growth.

Warning signs of fuel contamination

Commercial operators should monitor for:

• Blocked or frequently changing fuel filters
• Cloudy or darkened fuel
• Sludge accumulation at the bottom of tanks
• Corrosion within storage systems
• Unexpected generator or equipment faults

Early detection reduces the likelihood of unplanned downtime.

Preventing fuel contamination in commercial operations

Fuel contamination can rarely be eliminated entirely, but it can be managed.

Preventative measures include:

• Regular fuel sampling and testing
• Routine tank inspections
• Water removal and drainage
• Appropriate filtration systems
• Use of preventative fuel additives where required

For businesses relying on generators, plant machinery or fleet vehicles, incorporating fuel management into planned maintenance schedules helps reduce long-term risk.

If you suspect your fuel is contaminated, speak to your local OilMaxx depot for guidance on testing, treatment and preventative solutions.

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