Generally, oil tanks service life can last up to 20 years. Proper maintenance of oil tanks can serve a homeowner a longer lifespan than those who do not observe its condition. During cold winter seasons, oil tanks are likely to run into issues. Watching the oil tank from time to time will help you correct any disruption. Below are signs that show your tank needs maintenance or replacement.
Rusty tank
When the tank’s body is rusty or corroded, this is a sign that your tank could be leaking, and its operations are not efficient. You need to call an oil tank professional to come and inspect for corrective measures.
Defective installation
How the installation was done matters. The process determines the functionality of the system. A faulty installation reduces the functioning capacity. You can know a defective structure when the tank’s legs are uneven or when you detect a crack on the foundation sit.
Broken fuel gauge
A broken or a stuck fuel gauge can cost you a lot. You may find yourself overfilling the tank risking its functionality. A fuel gauge that has a problem can lead to a tank running out of fuel anytime. Maintaining oil lines is also essential for system efficiency.
Clogged vent pipes
Clogged ventilation pipes give the user wrong readings on the amount of fuel the tank requires or the system’s energy.
Ways of expanding the lifespan of your oil tank
The highest issue that leads to tank breakdown is corrosion. Please pay attention to moisture and sediments that may find their way in the tank and correct the problem on time. Listed are methods dealing with corruption risks.
Apply rustproof paints
To protect your tank from premature corrosion risks, paint the body of the tank with rustproof paint. When applying, focus on the foundation set and the legs of the tank. The process can increase the life of your tank to a large extent.
Get a fill gauge protector and stability bracket
A fill gauge protector is used to protect the oil from falling snow and ice. The Protector can also act as protection preventing anything from knocking or falling against the filter leading to leakage. Stability brackets are essential for the full functionality of the tank during lousy weather.
Avoid vegetables around the tank
As vegetables grow, they drop moisture that may reach the tank. Corrosion starts and the tank begins to underperform. Clearing your tank area reduces obstructions that may cause corrosion.
Check the performance of the tank regularly
Check both the interior and exterior parts of the tank. For the external factors, look for bent legs or cracked foundation and correct them immediately. For the interior, consider how the flow rate is working and ensure there are no system blockages.
Fill tank in the spring season
Filling your tank during the warm seasons can cause corrosion and create sediments in your tank. The best time to fill is during spring seasons for the full functionality of the system. Besides, install vent alarms to get signals when your tank is full. Installation of these systems will protect a fuel gauge from breaking due to overfilling.
Do you need to replace or repair your oil tank?
Some oil tanks may need repair, while other oil tanks require replacement. When the corrosion is more severe, your oil tank may need a replacement. Your tank will need a replacement when:
- When it is badly leaking.
- When you have done several repairs.
- When the tank is too old.
- When the type of tank you own requires regular replacement.
It is essential to contact an oil tank professional when you are unsure about the tank’s condition. When replacing the tank, invest in it so that it can serve you for a longer time. Avoid refurbished or resold tanks when shopping around. Getting a professional to replace the oil tank is advisable because they have the skill and knowledge, unlike doing it yourself.