Spring is the season for cleaning, which is why it makes sense you would consider replacing your old oil tank during this season. After all, isn’t spring cleaning just describing how you purge your home of all the things that don’t serve a purpose anymore? Your indoor storage tank was only designed to last about 25 years, and now that that time has come and gone, your tank is likely not serving your needs very well. So, this spring, consider replacing your heating oil storage tank.
The Benefit of Replacing Your Oil Tank in the Spring
As we mentioned, an aboveground oil tank will last 25 years before it needs to be replaced. An underground oil storage tank will last significantly less time. It has a maximum lifespan of about 15 years. If your tank is reaching the end of its lifespan or has already passed it, you should schedule an oil tank replacement.
Don’t assume that just because you haven’t noticed an issue with your old oil tank that it means it’s working perfectly. Heating oil tanks rust from the inside out due to trapped moisture and sediment, which means you likely will not experience complications until the tank forms a hole — and at that point, you have an oil spill to deal with! It could cost you anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 in remediation costs when a leak occurs.
It should go without saying that it’s better to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to an old oil tank. You can reduce your risk of an oil tank leak by having your old tank replaced during the spring season.
Why spring? The warm weather during spring ensures the ground isn’t frozen. Frozen soil can make it difficult to perform underground tank installations. Another benefit of replacing your tank in the spring is that you will not have to worry about being without heat during the cold winter season. Plus, spring is the perfect time to consider an oil tank replacement because you’re already completing work around the home. All you will need to do is add “Replace Oil Tank” to your to-do list.
Something Wrong With Your Oil Storage Tank? Don’t Wait!
Of course, if you are already experiencing tank failure, you should not wait until spring to install a new heating oil tank. If you delay in having your tank serviced, you could face expensive repair and remediation costs in the near future.
Signs an Oil Tank Needs to Be Serviced or Replaced
How do you know if your oil tank is failing? Watch out for these telltale signs of trouble:
- Rust and dents on the tank
- Wet spots underneath the tank or on its surface
- Stray oil around the fuel gauge or on the ground near the tank
- Clogged vent pipes
- Oil levels are depleted quicker than usual
The Importance of Annual Inspections
Since many oil tank problems are difficult to see, it’s best to have your tank professionally inspected on an annual basis. Heating oil tank experts can diagnose minor issues before they become expensive headaches. Specifically, they will be able to see if your tank has water or sludge pooling at the bottom, if it is corroding from the inside, or if there are issues with the oil filter cartridge or filter screen. By scheduling routine inspections, you avoid the risk of harming the environment, your property, and your budget.
Whether you need help with a tank removal and replacement or annual inspections, Professional Tank & Environmental is the team to call. We can get you situated with a new heating oil tank that is affordable and dependable. Contact us today for a free estimate on an oil tank installation in your home.