If your home uses an oil heating system, you should have a storage tank that houses and disperses the fuel to your boiler or furnace. To ensure a smooth functioning system, you'll need periodic oil tank cleaning. Here’s what you should know about this service.  

Why Is Oil Tank Cleaning Important?

Condensation can build up along the tank walls since the temperatures inside and outside are usually different. This moisture mixed with rust and oil forms a thick sludge, which can build up in the filter, lines, and bottom of the tank. 

This substance clogs the delivery system, making the boiler or furnace less efficient and eventually shutting down the whole system if oil cannot flow. Periodic cleaning is necessary to prevent this buildup. 

When Should You Have Yours Cleaned?

Oil tank cleaning is recommended every three to five years. The exact frequency depends on how often your heating system is used. The colder it is, the more it runs, which causes more oil to flow through and more sludge to form. If you’ve had a loose fill or vent cap, have your oil checked for water and your tank cleaned right away if water is present, as this can cause your system to shut down, leaving you with no heat. 

What Can You Do to Prevent Sludge?

There's no way to completely prevent the condensation that leads to sludge. However, you can reduce the amount by refilling the tank with oil every few months since a full tank leaves less room for moisture to form. You should also have the tank serviced each season; the technician should change the filters and inspect the lines to remove sludge buildup between cleanings.  Chemical additives that treat for moisture and bacteria can also be added each delivery to keep sludge from buiilding up in the first place.   

If you're due for an oil tank cleaning, contact Bradigan’s Incorporated in Kittanning, PA. This company has served homes in Armstrong and the surrounding counties since 1952. They offer affordable oil prices and system maintenance 24 hours a day. They'll ensure your oil tank is ready to handle the increased demand as the weather gets colder. Visit their website to see a full list of services, or call (724) 548-7654 to schedule an oil tank cleaning.