Written on: July 27, 2020

Heating Oil Tank Summer Care: Five Ways

Your heating oil tank is built to last fifteen years or more – especially if it is regularly maintained by a qualified heating professional. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some basic tasks for your heating oil tank that you can’t perform yourself.

5 Storage Tank Summer To-Dos

Here are five things you can do to keep your oil storage tank healthy and happy heading into next heating season.

1. Keep your tank at least half full – An empty oil tank is prone to a build-up of condensation (water) on its interior tank walls; that water will eventually find its way into your fuel, where it will sink to the bottom of your tank and corrode it from the inside-out. A damp tank interior will also encourage the growth of bacteria in your fuel, which will slowly turn your heating oil into a thick sludge that clogs your fuel lines. If your tank is half full or less, we highly recommend you schedule a heating oil delivery soon to avoid problems down the road….and with heating oil prices as low as they are now, you can also save a few bucks on your next fill-up.
2. Watch for leaks – Periodically examine the tank, fuel delivery and vent lines, valves, supply and return lines and all fittings. Look for signs of oil or rust that might indicate a leak or some other problem.
3. Keep an eye on tank supports – Check your oil tank’s feet for problems that could make the tank less stable. Make sure your tank is on a level surface – preferably on a concrete pad or level basement floor. If the tank legs are compromised, contact us right away.
4. Look for surface damage – Examine your heating oil tank for obvious dents, oil stains and any signs of wear, settling or tilting, which could lead to problems later.
5. Keep your fill pipe clear – Keep your oil tank’s fill pipe accessible for heating oil deliveries year-round; if the area near the fill pipe is overgrown, clear it so that your heating oil delivery team can reach it easily.

A properly maintained heating oil storage tank could last two decades or more, so it pays to make the effort to keep it leak-free and healthy.

If your heating oil tank is on its last legs, don’t wait to replace it – install a new oil tank in CT or NY today, before you have a leak on your hands!

Contact Westmore Fuel today to learn more about heating oil tank installations in Westchester County, NY and Fairfield County, CT.