Learn about all the latest oil storage tanks have to offer
With a storage tank, you can safely store an ample supply of oilheat onsite, so you can heat your home as needed. Safe and durable, today’s storage tanks are worlds ahead of their predecessors from just 20 or 30 years ago.
What to Expect from the Newest Generation of Aboveground Fuel Storage Tanks
- They are double-walled, which means that the inside tank holds the oil and the outside tank serves as added protection. The outer tank is often made from corrosion-resistant, galvanized steel.
- They are built with alarms and leak-detection systems, so that homeowners will know immediately if there has been leakage from the inner tank to the outer tank.
- They come with tank warranties that can last for 20 or 30 years. That’s a real benefit if you’re selling your home!
- The sleek designs of these tanks make them more attractive and give homeowners more flexibility to place them outside of the house or in their basement.
Understanding Storage Tank Inspections
When you own a storage tank, keeping up with regularly scheduled professional inspections is important. Since corrosion generally happens from the inside out, it’s difficult to know on your own if the tank is failing.
In between scheduled checks, you can do your own visual inspections. Trouble signs to keep an eye out for include:
- pinhole leaks. These are the result of corrosion inside the tank, which leads to rusting.
- small blisters in the paint. You should be able to feel these on the tank’s underside—they are about the size of a dime and can indicate pending failure.
- condensation on the tank’s outside—even when it’s been a while since the last oilheat delivery.
Your storage tank may need to be replaced if you notice any of the following issues:
- restrictions or clogs in the vent cap or the fill cap
- evidence of corrosion
- sagging tank legs
- evidence of spills
Keep Your Tank Full—Even in the Summer
Empty space in an oil tank—particularly in spring and summer, can result in condensation along the tank’s inside walls. Over time, this condensation becomes sediment, which can lead to corrosion.
The Bottom Line
Today’s tanks are light-years ahead of older models! If your existing fuel storage tank is 30 years old or more, it’s probably time to consider replacing it. Contact your local heating oil company to explore the latest options in new oil storage tanks and to learn about consumer rebates through the Maine Energy Marketers Association.
