4 Signs Your Heating Oil Tank Needs to be Replaced
If you are unsure how old your oil tank is, the best thing to do is to have it inspected by an experienced professional to gauge the age of the tank and any potential problems that could come along with it. It is best to replace an aging oil tank before problems begin to arise. Use the information below as a guide if you’re on the fence as to whether your heating oil tank needs to be replaced.
Well-maintained, regularly checked oil tanks typically last between 10-15 years before they need to be replaced. An oil tank older than 15 years old may start to leak, corrode or rust, which could quickly turn costly.
Broken Fuel Gauge
A broken fuel gauge is a red flag that your heating oil tank needs to be serviced and could be a warning sign that a full heating oil tank replacement could be required. If you suspect that your fuel gauge is broken, the best course of action is to have a certified professional inspect your oil tank for verification.
The fuel gauge is an indicator of when it’s time to refill the tank. A broken fuel gauge will make it difficult to keep track of the oil level in the tank, which means you run the risk of running empty in the middle of the winter. Additionally, running out of heating oil could result in damage to your home and added emergency oil delivery fees.
Leaks or a Wet Tank
Any signs of leakage, especially liquid or moisture coming out of the oil tank, are clear indications that it’s time to have your oil tank inspected immediately. Moisture may form at the bottom of the tank and accumulate at the side of the tank until it reaches the top. Over time, black deposits will form, which could further damage the oil tank.
Keep in mind, however, that if your heating oil tank is outdoors, moisture may be due to rain or dew, which may not necessarily damage the tank. The main cause for concern is if your oil tank is located somewhere like a basement and you notice wet spots around it.
Low Quality Installation
One of the signs of a faulty oil tank installation is unstable legs. Instability may cause the tank to have trouble functioning when it is at full capacity. A faulty installation will also likely result in other internal problems that could be hazardous for homeowners and should be addressed in a timely fashion.
Unprotected Oil Lines
Split or cracked lines carrying oil between the tank and furnace are immediate signs that your oil tank and/or oil lines should be serviced and possibly replaced. Oil that is not flowing correctly to the furnace system is a direct risk to your home.
Prevention
Always remember that consistent maintenance to your heating oil tank is the key to longevity and your tank’s lifespan. We recommend our TankSure program to all of our heating oil customers who are looking for an extra layer of protection in their home. It will also include an annual ultrasonic inspection to gauge your tank’s thickness and provide you with a tank replacement rebate (pre-qualification required*). Learn more about our TankSure Program today.
If you are looking to have your heating oil tank replaced, Aero Energy is here to help. Request a quote for a heating oil tank today!