Schedule Your Heating Oil Tank Removal Before Winter
Why Waiting Can Make an Easy Job into a Complicated One
Removing and replacing an old heating oil storage tank isn’t a complicated job—as long as the tank is empty. Removing a heating oil tank that’s full of oil is a much bigger job, as you can imagine. That’s why we recommend scheduling your tank removal before you order you winter fill-up.
Not sure if it’s time to replace your tank? Or maybe you think you can eke out one more season before you have to replace it. Here’s why you should think again: If your aging tank fails, you won’t be dealing with just a replacement project, you’ll be dealing with an oil spill. That’s a lot more complicated—and a lot more expensive.
How Long Will Your Tank Last?
There are several things that can influence how long your oil tank will last: Age, maintenance and construction are the main factors. The good news is that modern heating oil storage tanks have come a long way, and a new tank will provide decades or virtually leak-proof performance compared to older types.
Here’s what you need to consider if you think it’s time to replace your heating oil tank:
- How old is your heating oil storage tank? If your tank is less than 15 years old, you’re probably ok for a few more years. If you don’t know when it was installed, and your home was built before 2000, it’s probably time.
- How is it made? Older tanks are made of steel and can be of single- or double-walled construction. In addition, the steel can be different gauges or thicknesses. Thicker, double walls are better. Also, where the connector valve is located can make a difference. Connectors at the bottom of the tank (instead of the side) last longer. Newer tanks are made from plastic and fiberglass and are designed to last 50 years or more.
- How has it been maintained? Tanks left empty over the summer can have condensation build up inside. That can lead to rust. Likewise, sediments at the bottom of the tank can result in corrosion. All that damage happens from the inside out: if you are seeing rust or seepage on the outside of your tank, you need to act fast to avoid a costly leak and spill.
Know the Signs of Oil Tank Failure
If your heating oil tank is approaching the thirty-year mark, it’s time to start keeping an eye out for the warning signals that it’s hitting the end of its lifespan. Perform a visual inspection regularly, looking for dents, leaks or signs of corrosion. And if you don’t already, you should consider scheduling professional maintenance once a year.
Here are the telltale signs that your heating oil tank is leaking—or could start soon.
- Damp Spots: The first sign your oil tank is leaking is a damp spot on the tank. Usually, they will appear on the underside of your tank or along the seam at the bottom of the tank. As the leak gets worse, oil will travel up the side of the tank.
- Paint Problems: Blistering in the paint on the underside of the tank is a sign the tank is compromised. Condensation on the outside of the tank, even after a delivery, is also a warning sign.
- Sticky Drips: If the leak goes undetected, black icicle-like deposits or sticky drips will form on the underside of the tank. You may or may not notice an oil smell.
- Floor Stains: Reddish black spots will appear on the floor underneath the area. Depending on how long the leak goes undetected, an oil stain will begin to develop on the floor.
The Bottom Line
Casey energy has been serving heating oil customers in the Ridgefield, Connecticut, area since 1949, so we know a lot about heating oil tanks and how to remove them safely. We have the training, the permits, and the equipment to get the job done. Got an underground tank? No problem: we work with an EPA-certified subcontractor to handle excavation work.
Contact us today, before your fall fuel delivery!