We all know that an empty oil tank means bad news in the winter because now you have no heat. But many people don’t realize that having an empty heating oil storage tank in the summer can also cause problems—although for a totally different reason: condensation forms inside the empty space of your tank.
Condensation is a common problem for tanks during the summer. Hot, humid days and cooler nights create the right atmosphere for condensation buildup to accelerate inside your tank. And if your tank is aboveground, outdoors and in an unshaded area, it’s especially prone to condensation.
That’s why it’s best to keep your tank at least half-full (preferably more) during the warm months.
After water forms on the bare walls on the empty area of the tank, it drips down and sinks to the bottom of the tank because water is denser than heating oil. There, it becomes an ideal environment for bacteria and other microorganisms.
Over time, these organisms die off and turn into sediment. One problem is that sediment, commonly referred to as sludge, can get into your fuel lines and clog them up. This will cause your heating system to shut down.
So here’s the bottom line: keeping your tank full during the summer prolongs its life. That’s because the same condensation that results in sludge can also corrode your tank from the inside out – a big problem that could be difficult to see coming and costly to resolve.
Knowing you’re protecting your investment in a home heating oil storage tank should give you plenty of motivation to get a summer fill. But there are other benefits to filling your oil tank now, instead of waiting for the cold weather to return.
Oil storage tanks can last for many years, but they eventually do give out. Life spans vary depending on the humidity, the thickness of the steel and more. And when tanks do fail, it’s hard to see it coming because they generally erode from the inside out.
To avoid the headaches that will come if your tank fails, it’s a good idea to check out the new aboveground tank options that are available. Today’s fuel storage tanks are light-years ahead of old models because they are virtually leak-proof and have features that include:
Here’s another great feature: Modern aboveground tanks generally can be installed in small or unusually shaped spaces.
Speak to us about current rebate opportunities. For instance, the Oil Heat Institute of Rhode Island Upgrade & Save program is offering a $250 rebate for the installation of an aboveground oil tank to replace either an aboveground or underground oil tank. Other rebates are also available for both our Rhode Island and Massachusetts customers. Read more here.
Since 1984, Wesco Oil has been driven by one goal: to be a dependable heating company that provides the best service for our customers in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.
We not only deliver the oil that keeps your home warm. We also install, maintain and repair your home’s heating systems, from boilers to furnaces to water heaters. Become a customer today!
