Smart tank monitoring: What installers and engineers need to know

As homes increasingly rely on smart technology to manage heating and fuel efficiency, oil tank monitoring is an area of growing interest.

For oil tank installers and boiler engineers, understanding how these systems work – and how they can help reduce emergency call-outs, customer inconvenience, and support workload – is becoming an important part of the service offering. The latest developments in these vital devices present an opportunity for you to add value to your customers on every job.

One of the most notable developments is the use of radar-based smart monitors for domestic oil tanks. These devices provide accurate, real-time level data about oil levels and usage, typically via a smartphone app. They help customers avoid run-outs, reduce emergency deliveries (often at higher prices), and provide longer-term value from installations and service visits.

We spoke with Fiona Bellairs, Customer Success Director at Magnus Monitors, developers of the award-winning Magnus HAWKi Smart Tank Monitor, to find out how radar monitoring compares with older technologies – and what oil engineers need to know to confidently help customers to take advantage of this technology.

Practical considerations

Some radar monitors – such as HAWKi – mount externally via a standard 32mm port or with strong adhesive, avoiding the need for drilling or modification. This offers a simple retrofit option for most tanks without affecting structural integrity or warranty conditions.

Crucially, radar performs far more reliably than float-based or ultrasonic systems in real-world domestic settings. Ultrasonic monitors are prone to inaccurate readings caused by condensation, fluctuating temperatures, or unusual tank shapes. Radar, on the other hand, is unaffected by these conditions. It provides consistent results in unheated spaces and can accurately read levels through plastic even when surface moisture is present.

Real-world trials show that HAWKi delivers ±5mm accuracy across a variety of tank shapes and sizes – including horizontal, vertical, and IBC tanks – provided basic installation guidance is followed.

Durability is another factor to consider. Devices with IP68 ratings and replaceable batteries are being designed to function reliably in outdoor UK conditions, with typical battery lives ranging from 2 to 10 years depending on the model.

For steel tanks, adhesive mounting is not suitable. Radar cannot penetrate metal, so the monitor must be mounted over a plastic or non-metallic port or adapter to maintain a clear line of sight to the oil surface.

Benefits for customers and installers

Accurate level monitoring enables customers to avoid costly run-outs and boiler shutdowns. It also supports more efficient fuel budgeting – something of particular importance to vulnerable or cost-conscious users. Some models offer alerts and consumption tracking via apps. The Magnus app is designed to be simple and intuitive, with percentage-to-empty displays, estimated days to empty, and trend insights available at a glance.

Importantly, it has also been designed with accessibility in mind. Feedback from users – especially older individuals or those less confident with technology – has been positive. Once installed, the app requires minimal user interaction and provides clear, actionable notifications.

For installers, these systems provide a useful add-on service. Offering tank monitors during annual services or new installations could be a simple way to help customers get more control over their fuel use, while also reinforcing your role as a trusted advisor.

Remote monitoring options

For holiday homes or remote properties, radar-based monitors with cellular connectivity are becoming increasingly popular. The Magnus Omni option delivers the same radar accuracy but connects via NB-IoT/LTE-CAT-M1 networks (with 2G fallback), allowing users to check levels from anywhere without needing to be on-site.

Feedback from users of second homes has been especially positive. One customer reported an 80% reduction in emergency deliveries after installing Omni, simply by using alert features to schedule timely refills. In commercial applications, the non-contact radar design also proves useful – for example, avoiding corrosion or crystallisation in AdBlue storage.

Support and installer resources

Magnus provides a range of support materials for engineers, including quick-start guides, installation videos, and customer-facing brochures. For trade partners, co-branded marketing materials are also available. Real-time tech support via phone and email is backed by an online portal and app-based troubleshooting tools – providing reassurance during installation and beyond.

Supply

Some smart monitors are only available through trade distributors rather than retail outlets. Engineers should check with their regular trade supplier regarding availability and support.

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