Truth be told, you probably haven’t thought about your oil tank in a while, right? If it’s not empty, it shouldn’t even cross your mind. And in most cases, that’s fine! Heating oil tanks are built to last a long time. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore it completely.
Having your heating oil tank regularly inspected helps to catch problems before they become more complicated—and potentially costly. In fact, it’s not just a good idea, it’s the law here in Vermont. Since 2020, you must confirm that your fuel oil tank has been checked by a Vermont Certified Tank Inspector within the past three years. If you can’t provide this proof, we cannot deliver your heating oil!
One reason for the law is that a tank failure is not just inconvenient and expensive, it’s hazardous for people and the environment. And the most common reason for heating oil tank failure—corrosion from the inside of the tank—is hard to detect early because you can’t see it by simply looking at it.
Corrosion begins when condensation builds up inside your tank, usually because there is more air than oil inside your tank. Because water is denser than heating oil, that water drips down and sinks to the bottom of the tank, where it becomes an ideal environment for bacteria and other microorganisms. Over time, it turns into sediment or sludge that eats away at your tank from the inside. By the time you see the signs—via rust or weeping—you’ll need to act fast to replace your tank and avoid a major spill.
That sludge can also clog your fuel lines, which will cause your heating system to shut down. If you’re having frequent heating system problems, the culprit could be your fuel tank!
If it’s been a while since your heating oil tank was professionally inspected—or you can’t remember the last time it was inspected—call our team of professionals for in-home service! We follow guidelines from the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) to make sure your tank is in good shape and approved for deliveries, and your family, property and investment are protected.
Between official inspections, always keeping your heating oil tank at least 50% full—and especially during summer’s warmest months—as it will significantly reduce condensation in your heating oil tank.
You can also do your own visual inspections of your tank’s exterior from time to time. Keep an eye out for rust, warping, dents, and weeping or wet spots on the sides or bottom of the tank, and don’t ignore broken or weakening leg brackets, either.
If your tank is hitting the two-decade mark, or already has, it might be a good time to start thinking about a replacement. A new heating oil tank costs far less than the expense of an oil spill or cleanup.
We can help with top-quality tanks and expert installations, as well as old tank removals. Contact us today for more information and to schedule an inspection.