Is My Heating Oil Tank Too Old?
Warning signs that it’s time for an oil tank replacement.
You can fairly easily recognize the signs that some pieces of home comfort equipment are nearing the ends of their service lives. If your hot water keeps running out unexpectedly, your old water heater may be on its last legs. If you’re noticing cold spots around your home in the winter, your furnace or boiler may be struggling. Loud mechanical noises from your air conditioning system could be telling you it’s time to find a replacement.
But what about your heating oil tank? These long-lasting, durable storage containers are vital for a well-functioning heating system. And a sudden oil tank failure can lead to an expensive, disruptive fuel spill.
At Burt’s Reliable, we inspect, repair and replace heating oil tanks in Riverhead and other Suffolk County communities. Here is a rundown to help you determine if your tank is getting too old.
The Lifespan of a Heating Oil Tank
Heating oil tanks last a long time, but not forever. As a general rule, you can expect your heating oil tank to last for about 25 years. Many well-maintained tanks last much longer. Believe it or not, we’ve even seen tanks that have served homes for half a century!
Warning Signs That Your Tank May Fail
When it comes to heating oil tank failures, internal corrosion is the most common culprit. Over time, microorganisms can corrode your tank from the inside, weakening the walls and leading to leaks.
How can you look for internal corrosion from the outside of the tank? Here are some warning signs you can see:
- Moisture on the tank long after you’ve received a fuel delivery
- Blistering paint on the surface of the tank
- Rust and dents on the body of your tank
- Pinhole leaks or loose oil on the floor
It’s important that you check your tank out regularly and reach out to Burt’s Reliable right away to inspect it if you notice any of these warning signs.
Extending Your Heating Oil Tank’s Life Expectancy
What makes internal corrosion happen more quickly? The main driver is condensation on the inside of your tanks. Moisture forms on tank walls, especially in warmer months. However, you can reduce condensation by keeping your oil tank filled through the summer.
So, contact us for a heating oil delivery if you finished the winter with a tank under 50% full. We’ll fill your tank well in advance of the cold weather, and you can be confident that you’ve minimized condensation in your tank. Plus, your heating oil will be ready when you need it. It has a shelf life of 18 to 24 months.
Burt’s Reliable Repairs and Replaces Heating Oil Tanks
If you believe your oil tank is on its last legs, reach out to the pros at Burt’s Reliable, and we’ll perform a thorough inspection. We might be able to repair any issues with the tank, or it could be time for a replacement.
If you need a new heating oil tank, we can handle everything, including transferring any remaining fuel, getting necessary permits, adding new piping and disposing of your old tank. We even handle permitting and remediation for retiring underground tanks. We sell and install top-of-the-line, corrosion-proof, double-walled tanks like the Granby Ecogard. They come with warranties as long as 25 years.
You don’t want to face the unpleasant surprise of a heating oil leak. Contact our team today for oil tank service.