November 1, 2023
Keeping an oil tank on the premises of your home is a great way to maintain a steady supply of clean, safe heating oil. If you heat with oil, then you likely already know that these tanks don’t last forever, which is why it’s important to be well-educated in how to inspect your tank and know when it’s time for an oil tank replacement. Eventually, every heating oil tank will pass its lifespan and need replacement, but don’t worry – your Marshall Oil experts will be there with you every step of the way when it comes to taking the next steps with a new oil tank. But first things first, keep reading this blog to learn the top signs that it might be time for an oil tank replacement!
Related Post: Benefits of Replacing Your Oil Tank
8 Signs You Might Need an Oil Tank Replacement in NY and CT
Your Tank Has Reached Its Age Limit
The natural age limit for tanks is about 25 years old. Underground tanks last much less longer at about 15 years old. If your tank is nearing the end of its life cycle, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement before your tanks begins to degrade if it hasn’t already.
Visible Signs of Exterior Tank Damage
Regularly inspecting the exterior of your aboveground oil tank is a great idea, especially if it is getting older. Common signs of exterior oil tank damage include discoloration, corrosion, a presence of rust, or denting along the tank. If you notice any of these signs, you must seek an oil tank replacement soon. Exterior signs of damage indicate more extensive damage to the interior of the tank. We recommend you contact your Marshall Oil tank experts for a consultation immediately.
Wet Spots and Other Signs of Leaking from the Tank
Pinholes and minor cracks are often the first major signs that your oil tank has corroded from the inside. Signs of this that you should not ignore can include:
- Wet spots around the oil tank
- Puddles of oil near the oil tank or along its piping
- A persistent odor of heating oil in or near your home
Exposure to Outside Elements
If your oil tank is located outside your home, it is crucial to ensure no elements can get inside it. For example, you don’t want snow, ice, or rain to make their way in. Such contamination can lead to potential damage inside the tank. One of the worst things that can happen to an oil tank, even one recently installed, is exposure to snowfall.
Drops in Oil Efficiency
Drops in heating oil efficiency can occur when your tank is wearing down and getting old. If you’re dealing with poor oil efficiency, be sure to contact Marshall Oil. We can use ultrasonic tank testing to help you decide the best course of action to take with your oil tank.
Damaged or Broken Tank Components
Your oil tank incorporates a large number of important components. A broken fuel gauge or faulty oil tank vent alarm can mean a lot of trouble and can drastically reduce the safety of an otherwise very safe heat source for your home. If the vent alarm on your oil tank is broken, then an oil delivery supplier will not fill the tank, and you risk a no-heat emergency. Since the cost to replace an oil tank gauge can vary, it may not be worth it to replace these kinds of parts if the oil tank is old. Luckily, Marshall Oil can help with the replacement and removal of the oil tank.
Frequent Pipe Clogs & Sludge Buildup
Heating oil tanks that are corroding or are not well insulated can lead to a massive amount of sludge buildup that can be hard to keep up with. In some cases, a cleanout may get the job done, but often, oil tank replacement is also a good option.
Unprotected Oil Tank Connections
The oil lines that connect the heating oil tank to your furnace should be in good working condition and sleeved with a protective coating. Bare copper feedlines in cement are a recipe for disaster, as the substances will eventually corrode. If you ever notice any splits or cracks in that connection, then you need to have your heating oil tank serviced by an oil tank replacement technician from Marshall Oil right away. If the lines have cracked, there’s a possibility that an oil leak will happen next. Don’t ignore this issue—it’s an affordable fix that you won’t regret!
Is It Time for a New Oil Tank? Get in Touch with Marshall Oil to Learn about Your Options
If you have noticed any of these signs, be sure to contact your Marshall Oil heating pro to help determine your next steps and avoid a costly breakdown or oil leak. Whether you need to replace your heating oil tank, or you’re looking for trained oil tank professionals to help you make the right choice on a new tank, Marshall Oil can help. Get in touch with us today!