Your oil tank delivers a steady supply of fuel to appliances such as furnaces, boilers, and water heaters. Proper maintenance can prevent leaks and other dangerous issues, such as groundwater pollution and gas leaks. Review this guide to learn how to take care of your tank and identify the early signs of problems. 

3 Ways to Maintain Your Oil Tank

1. Monitor Oil Use

Monitor your home heating oil usage throughout the winter and compare it to subsequent cold seasons. Though there may be slight deviations, the amount of oil you use should remain relatively consistent. If you notice a sharp increase, your tank may have a leak and require replacement.

2. Remove Vent Blockages

Oil tanks have vent pipes located above the fill port. They displace air as the reservoir fills with fuel and provide ventilation to move oil smoothly through the supply lines to appliances. 

Check the outdoor tank pipes once a week for snow and ice deposits, and look for animal nests on indoor vents. Remove obstructions to prevent poor oil flow and clogged lines. 

3. Check for Damage

Once per year, perform a visual inspection of the oil tank. Look at the legs and take note of signs of instability, such as leaning or sinking. Check the body of the tank for rust spots, paying close attention to seams that can easily break due to corrosion.

Inspect the gauge for cracks and the fill pipe for leaks. If you observe any of these troubles, contact a heating oil company about replacing the tank.

When you notice problems with your oil tank, get in touch with Ike's Fuel. Located in Douglas, AK, they provide new tanks and convenient heating oil delivery services to homes and businesses throughout the Greater Juneau Area. Call (907) 364-3420 to place an order for heating oil, or visit the website to learn more about their auto-fill program.