Oil tanks are an important part of your home. They’re normally built to last 15 to 30 years, yet everything we use to make our lives better and easier needs a replacement now and then. Your oil tank will eventually reach the end of its useful life, and it will be up to you to choose when it is time to replace it.
The trouble with oil tanks, on the other hand, is that at least some of the issues they cause aren’t usually obvious, which means you could be living with danger without even realizing it.
Regularly having your oil tank inspected and maintained by professionals is a smart investment. If you’ve noticed warning indications that your tank is about to break down, it’s time to consider oil tank replacement services.
In this article, we’ll look at the indicators that it’s time to replace your oil tank.
- Your oil tank is out of date
The age of your oil tank is the first clue you should look for. If your oil tank has been placed in your home for 15 years or longer, it is a good idea to have it inspected by a professional. After a decade or so in service, problems usually begin to emerge. It’s not necessary to replace your oil tank just because it’s over 15 years old. It may, however, be more cost-effective and energy efficient. Replacing an old tank with a newer model could help you heat your home faster and for less money, as well as prevent problems from arising as frequently.
- Wet spots and other leakage indicators
Surface holes and cracks are the most obvious signs that anything is wrong inside the tank. Wet areas, whether beneath the tank or on its surface, indicate that there is a problem. Even the highest-quality oil tanks can develop this problem at some point.
Unfortunately, if your heating oil tank is leaking, it’s almost likely too late for repairs. It may have to be replaced entirely. This is because the tank has most likely corroded from the inside, resulting in holes and breaks that allow oil to escape.
How will you know if your storage tank is leaking? If your tank is in the basement, simply look for oil puddles or pools. If your tank is underground, you’re out of luck. Leakage is difficult to detect in this scenario, and a clue could be that you are consuming more oil or that your bill is increased.
- Examine the exterior for any damage
The presence of outside damage to the oil tank is a strong indication that it should be replaced. When your oil tank wears out, it usually begins on the inside and gradually erodes outwards. However, if your tank is exposed to the elements, such as direct sunshine, snowstorms, or rainstorms, it may suffer external damage. Dents, corrosion, and chipped paint are all signs of external deterioration. As degrees drop and the weather gets colder, you should inspect the seals and lids on your tank. If there is visible damage to the tank’s surface, contact a professional as soon as possible.
- Damaged elements of an oil tank
Each oil tank has many elements which are essential for its proper functioning. If you discover a faulty fuel gauge or an issue with the oil tank vent alarm, have it checked by a professional as soon as possible. If your fuel gauge is stuck or broken, have it replaced right away because a fuel run-out can damage your fuel lines and cause other heating system issues. When you fill an oil tank, it usually makes a sound to alert the delivery staff that oil is flowing; if you don’t hear a sound when you fill the tank, have it serviced.
- Constantly losing oil
You know how much oil you use per season as a tank owner. It is in your best interests to get the tank checked by an expert. If you continue to lose oil at an alarming rate, you already know what we’ll say: it’s time to replace your oil tank.
Oil tank maintenance can be pricy but ignoring these warning signs could result in you paying a lot more money. You should take care of the tank’s health in the same way that you take care of your own.
