August 1, 2024
Keeping a heating oil tank at your Cape Cod home is a great way to maintain a steady supply of clean, safe heating fuel. However, oil tanks don’t last forever. Every heating oil tank will eventually pass its intended lifespan. Falmouth Energy is here to help you know when the best time to replace your oil tank is! Continue reading to learn about the top signs it’s time to replace your oil tank.
Related Post: Why Every Oil Tank Owner Needs Insurance
Top Signs You Might Need an Oil Tank Replacement in Massachusetts
Visible Signs of Exterior Tank Damage
Common signs of exterior aboveground 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 our team at Falmouth Energy 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
Weak or Unstable Tank Legs
The oil tank’s legs can often reflect the overall condition of the tank. If the legs have become weak or unstable, it’s possible to replace them, but in the long run, replacing the tank is a more worthwhile investment.
Exposure to Outside Elements
If your oil tank is located outside your home, it’s crucial to ensure no elements can get inside it. You don’t want snow, ice, or rain to make their way in. Such contamination can lead to potential damage. Even indoor tanks can accumulate condensation and moisture through their fill pipes.
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, contact Falmouth Energy to investigate. Our tank experts can help you decide the best course of action to take with your oil tank.
Damaged or Broken Tank Components
A broken fuel gauge or faulty oil tank vent alarm can drastically reduce safety. If the vent alarm is broken, the tank cannot be filled, risking a no-heat emergency. Ensure your oil tank is in good condition, especially during winter on Cape Cod. Replacing an oil tank gauge can be costly and a full tank replacement may be more worthwhile.
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 a good option.
Unprotected Oil Tank Connections
Ensure the oil lines connecting your tank to the furnace are in good condition and sleeved with protective coating. Bare copper feedlines in cement will corrode. If you notice splits or cracks in the connection, contact a Falmouth Energy technician immediately. Ignoring this could lead to an oil leak—instead, take advantage of this affordable fix that will save you trouble later.
Related Post: Signals Your Cape Cod Property Needs a New Heating System
Need a New Oil Tank? Get in Touch with Falmouth Energy
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, contact us to help determine your next steps and avoid a costly breakdown and get prepared for your new tank installation. Whether you know you need to replace your heating oil tank, or you’re looking for trained professionals to help you make the right choice, Falmouth Energy is here to help.
