How to know it’s Time for an Oil Tank Upgrade
Your oil tank is vital the entire functionality of your heating system and ensuring your home maintains a comfortable temperature during the frigid winter months. Even if you’re impeccable at keeping up on maintenance and repairs, there will come a time when an oil tank upgrade is necessary. Look out for the telltale warning signs below so you’re not caught off guard by a failing home heating oil tank in the middle of a cold January night!
8 Signs you need an Oil Tank Upgrade
Age: The biggest contributing factor for the need of an oil tank replacement is the age of the unit. Typically, they will last 10-15 years when well taken care of. If your tank is around this age, it is time to start thing about an oil tank upgrade.
Visible Exterior Damage: At the beginning and end of each season you should do an inspection of the outside of your above ground tank. Look for corrosion, rust and dent marks, which indicate a replacement may be immediately necessary. Call a heating oil tank maintenance company right away for a professional opinion.
Frequently Clogs: Frequent clogging may indicate there is a significant amount of sludge built up inside the tank. Depending on the amount you may be able to save the tank with just a good cleanout, otherwise a replacement is necessary.
Inefficiency: If you’re finding the oil usage to be inefficient that may be a sign of a leak or an issue within your HVAC heating system. An inspection is necessary to determine if a simple tune-up will fix the problem or if you need to upgrade the tank altogether.
Leaking: Corrosion causes the tank to break down and cracks and pinholes will begin to form. Eventually your oil will start to leak out of these crevices. Keep an eye out for wet spots and puddles around the tank.
Damaged Parts: Compromised parts within your oil tank can dramatically decrease its safety and efficiency. Regularly inspect all important components and replace anything broken or damaged immediately.
Unstable Legs: The legs on your oil tank may be one of the most important components of the entire system! Weak or unstable legs compromise the integrity of the entire oil tank.
Frozen Fuel Gauge: The fuel gauge is one of the most vital mechanisms for your oil tank. Repair a broken or frozen fuel gauge immediately. If it becomes a recurring problem, call an HVAC company who specializes in oil tanks for an inspection.
Tips for Lasting Fuel Tank
The above signs will let you know that an oil tank upgrade is necessary in the next season or so. In order to get the most out of your unit, keep up on regular maintenance & repairs and minimize the tank’s exposure to the outside elements. You will greatly reduce the life of your fuel oil tank if it is exposed to snowfall, ice and frigid temperatures.