Having an oil tank allows you to maintain control over your heating needs and provides a much more cost-effective option than grid supplies. But, like any other investment, your tank requires maintenance and care to keep running smoothly. Regular inspections, cleaning, and other maintenance can extend the lifespan of your tank. Here are some tips to help you do just that.
Inspections
Whether you have an underground tank, an aboveground tank, or a bunded tank (one tank inside another), regular inspections are an essential part of any heating oil tank maintenance program. These inspections can help identify any problems early and can reduce the cost of a possible oil tank leak or the impact a tank leak could have on your property. A tank inspector can check for signs of a potential problem, such as corrosion on the support legs, cracking or settling of the concrete pad, or rusting on the tanks. They can also conduct environmental tests and soil sampling to determine if there is fuel oil contamination in the surrounding area of your home.
The inspection process will include a sweep to locate the underground tank and purge the tank to ensure no hazardous vapors are present. A lab analysis will also confirm that no oil has leaked from the tank. Depending on the test results, corrective action may be required, such as excavation or a site remediation plan.
Repairs
A good oil tank services Westchester County NY company will inspect and clean your underground or aboveground tank regularly. During this process, essential components like gauges and oil tank vent alarms are checked for proper function. Keeping the tank free of water and sludge helps avert leaks and corrosion. It’s essential to keep indoor tanks clear of snow, ice, and debris, as these can clog the fuel line. A good technician will use a broom to clear the area, and they’ll check underneath each fitting for signs of rust or corrosion. Underground tanks pose a particular hazard, and real estate agents will often insist on their removal before a home sale is finalized. Professional tank removal services include draining, siphoning, and transportation. They can also help you get a new tank that meets all your heating needs. They can even organize guaranteed supply and expert installation of a new tank and provide a maintenance contract with periodic inspections.
Cleaning
An oil tank should be cleaned at least every five years to avoid the buildup of sludge, which can lead to leaks. The tank should also be inspected regularly to ensure that essential components work correctly. For example, the tank vent alarm needs to be checked periodically to make sure it is functioning correctly. Regular cleaning can also help prevent the development of bacteria. Bacterial growth in the tank can cause clogged fuel filters and spray nozzles, which may lead to poor performance or even system failure. A clogged nozzle may also create unpleasant or smelly odors. Traditional tank cleaning requires hazardous confined space entry and total flushing of the system, but the latest robotic technology can help to clean your tanks quickly, easily, and safely. It can also help to extend the lifespan of your tanks by ensuring that they are as clean as possible.
Replacement
If a tank is damaged beyond repair, or if a property owner is switching to another type of heating fuel, the old oil tank will need to be removed and replaced. Having a professional handle this process prevents contamination of soil and groundwater. An experienced technician will drain the old tank and pump sludge into an approved container for disposal. They will also inspect the location for signs of contamination, including a sheen on the groundwater, odors of leaking heating oil, and any evidence of water or sludge pooling around the old tank site. If contaminated soil is found, an environmental assessment will be conducted to determine how much cleanup work is needed. Then, a new tank will be installed, along with the proper piping. This may include removing knockouts from the old tank openings, plugging outlets that won’t be used in the new system, and assembling the tank feet. A new tank must then be filled with oil from a heating oil delivery service.
