November 20th, 2020
Oil tanks can last anywhere from 10-15 year if taken care of properly. One of the best ways to take care of your oil tank is with regular inspection. Regular inspections will help you identify any minor issues before they become large problems. If you’ve never inspected an oil tank, it can be a little intimidating. However, inspecting a tank is easy if you know what to do. Make sure that you inspect your tank at least annually, but it’s best to inspect it whenever the seasons change. Here are the steps to take to inspect your above ground oil tank.
Check The Base
Start your inspection by looking at the legs and base of the tank. Ground often shifts as a result of temperature and moisture. This can cause your tank to slowly become unlevel. As it becomes unlevel it becomes vulnerable to breakage. Look for any cracking in the base the oil tank stands on. Then look at the legs and make sure that all of the legs are touching the base and are in good condition. If there are cracks, uneven legs, or the legs are degrading, you will need to call an oil tank expert to address the situation and fix the issue before it becomes a big problem.
Inspect The Seams
Next you will want to inspect the seams. The seams are anywhere that the metal meets. A good thing to look for are welding lines. Make sure that the seams do not have any rust or corrosion. Also check to make sure they are not starting to pull apart. Finally, check for any signs of degradation. If you notice any issues on the seam, call an oil tank expert to inspect and repair the issue.
Look For Leaks
Finally, you’ll want to look for leaks. Oil tanks leaks are not just a health hazard, they can be very challenging to remediate. When inspecting the oil tank to look for leaks, it’s also a good idea to look for any corrosion that could lead to leaks. You’ll want to check for leaks:
Along the bottom of the tank.
Along the oil line
On the line to the burner
At the oil filter
Look along the top of the tank
These are the areas most prone to leaking on above ground oil tanks. If you see any leaks, signs of corrosion, or any other damage along with your tank, call an oil tank expert.
Inspecting your oil tank will help you identify any issues and get them repaired. This will not only help protect your family and home from the risk of an oil tank leak, it will also extend the life of your oil tank. If you identify any issues, Meridian Environmental Services Inc. can help. We’ll help you resolve any issues and if needed can remove and install a new tank. Give us a call and we’ll be happy to help with any of your oil tank needs.
