If your furnace or heating system relies on fuel oil for energy, use an oil storage tank to house your home's oil supply. While oil is an efficient way to heat your home, there are dangers associated with refilling your tank, typically due to improper venting. Learn more about how oil tanks work in the guide below. 

What Are the Functions of the Vent Pipe & Whistle?

Fuel oil tanks are typically made from steel or fiberglass and stored underground or in your basement. They feature a series of pipes that lead from the tank to above ground outside of the home. Among these channels are the fill pipe, vent pipe, and vent whistle. 

The fill pipe allows an oil delivery company to refill the tank while the vent pipe provides ventilation, forcing excess air out of the tank to help the oil flow more freely. As the air escapes, the whistle, also known as a vent alarm, makes an audible whistling sound. When this noise stops, it indicates that the tank is full, alerting the oil provider to stop pumping. 

Why Venting Is Important

Venting is the safest and most effective way for an oil provider to know when to stop pumping oil into the tank. Without proper ventilation or a vent whistle, a technician may overfill the tank, resulting in potentially dangerous oil spills. These can damage the soil, groundwater, and local wildlife, resulting in a costly cleanup. 

While heating oil is less toxic to humans than gasoline, inhalation of vapors and direct contact with oil can cause various health concerns. Short-term exposure can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness, among other issues, such as respiratory concerns.

Long-term exposure to undetected leaks or unresolved spills can have more serious repercussions, including liver and kidney damage and diminished taste and smell. If you're unsure if you have a vent whistle, ask your oil provider next time you service your tank. Fortunately, vent alarms are relatively inexpensive and easily installed by many oil dealers.

For safe, reliable fuel oil delivery, contact Main Energy in Palmyra, NY. Since 2001, this knowledgeable oil company has provided a wide variety of fuels, including home heating oil, kerosene, propane, diesel, and gasoline, at affordable prices. Contact them today at 315-597-5200 to schedule your next delivery or visit them online to learn more about their services.