Did you know that condensation build-up on your interior tank walls can shorten tank life? Hot, humid days and cooler nights in the summer create the ideal environment for condensation buildup inside your tank. And if your storage tank is aboveground, outdoors and in an unshaded area, it’s especially vulnerable to condensation.
To avoid condensation build-up inside your storage tank, it’s best to keep your tank full during the warm months. Don’t worry, your heating oil won’t spoil or go bad if it sits in your tank unused for a couple of months. You’ll just be all set to use your heat again when we reach those first chilly nights of autumn.
After water forms on the bare walls on the empty area of the tank, it drips down and sinks to the bottom of the tank because water is denser than heating oil. There, it becomes a perfect environment for bacteria and other microorganisms.
Over time, these organisms turn into sediment. One problem is that sediment, also known as sludge, can get into your fuel lines and clog them. This will cause your heating system to shut down.
As with heating oil boilers and furnaces, periodic storage tank inspections can help you ward off problems with your fuel storage system and extend its life. But eventually there will come a time when it makes sense to upgrade to a new storage tank.
Beyond vast improvements in fuel quality, you should know that there have been many advances in heating oil equipment, including heating oil tanks. Designed with corrosion-resistant materials, today’s tanks can last for decades. Plus, new technology allows for remote monitoring to protect against the rare event of a leak and guarantees that you will always have a sufficient supply of heating oil on hand.
If your oil tank is more than 30 years old, it’s a good idea to speak with your local heating oil full-service company about your replacement options
As with storage tank water heaters, it can be hard to see when a heating oil tank is failing, because it usually corrodes from the inside out.
That’s why it’s a good idea to get regular, professional tank inspections done on your oil tank. You should also do your own visual inspections periodically, because some trouble signs can be seen, including:
Here are other warning signs that your tank may need to be replaced:
If you notice any trouble signs with your heating-oil storage tank, please reach out to your local Massachusetts heating oil company for assistance and advice.