Who Do You Call When Your Heating Oil Tank Leaks?

Seeing a leak in your heating oil tank is an alarming sign. Heating oil leaks can be quite tricky, and immediate action is required to prevent further damage.

This article elaborates on the symptoms of an oil tank leak, what to do immediately next, who to call for help, and essential oil tank maintenance practices for future issues.

Signs of a Leak from Your Heating Oil Tank

If discovered early on, a heating oil tank leak can prevent the hassle of a costly future bill and a lot of stress.

Some warning signs to observe that may mean your tank is leaking are:

• Odd Smell: One of the first things indicating a leak from the heating oil tank is the strong unusual smell around it. Heating oil has an unmistakable odour which, if leaking, should be noticeable.

• Dampness or Puddles: Check for signs of visible oil, such as dampness or small puddles beneath or around the tank. If there is any clear indication, then it may mean that you have a leaky tank.

• Increased Oil Consumption: Sudden increase in heating oil consumption may indicate that your tank is most probably leaking. Unexplained increases in usage can also mean oil is lost in a leak.

• Rust or Corrosion: Given that there may be visible rust or corrosion found in your oil tank, especially near the bottom, this may mean that the tank is deteriorating and is most likely going to leak.

What is the life expectancy of an oil tank?

Dead or Dying Plants Nearby: Wilting and dying plants close to the tank may signal a leakage because of the seepage of oil into the soil. More often than not, this is a primary indicator of underground oil leaks.

Immediate Action After Detection of an Oil Tank Leak

If you suspect that your heating oil tank is leaking, now is the time to act quickly. Here’s what to do:

Ventilate the Area: Open any nearby windows or doors for air exchange. Heating oil fumes can be hazardous, hence the need for air circulation.

Turn Off the Oil Supply: This should be done if it is safe, thus preventing any more oil from leaking out. A shutoff valve should be available near the tank or pipeline.

Contain the Leak: Absorbent materials like sand, kitty litter, or oil spill pads placed around the affected area should contain the oil as it spreads.

READ MORE ON OUR LEAK DETECTION SERVICES

Avoid Direct Contact: Heating oil can cause skin irritation, so avoid direct contact at any time and don’t try to clean the spill alone.

Call a Professional: This is perhaps the most important step. A professional can assess how bad the leak is and advise on what to do next.

Who Should You Call When Your Heating Oil Tank Has a Leak? 

Call the proper people. Here are some professionals who can help:

Local Environmental or Health Department

Licensed Spill Response Company

HVAC or Heating Oil Tank Specialist

Insurance Provider

How to Maintain Your Heating Oil Tank 

The good thing about maintaining your heating oil tank is that you can eliminate leaks before they even happen.

Regular maintenance keeps your tank in shape.

Here’s how to care for your tank:

• Inspect Your Tank Regularly— signs of wear and tear, like rust or dents. The sooner you catch these issues– the better chance you have of preventing a leak.
• Keep the Tank Area Clean and Dry— Ensure that the area around your tank is free of debris and dry. This helps prevent corrosion and keeps the tank in good condition.
• Check the Tank’s Fill and Vent Pipes–Over time, fill and vent pipes can become loose or damaged. Inspect these pipes to ensure they’re securely attached and free from cracks.
• Consider Professional Maintenance: Annual maintenance by a licensed HVAC technician can extend the life of your tank and help spot potential problems before they turn into costly repairs.
• Monitor Your Oil Levels: If you notice a sudden drop in oil levels without increased use, it could be a sign of a leak. Tracking your oil usage can help you catch potential issues early.

Bottom Line

Dealing with a leaking heating oil tank can be a stressful experience, but knowing what to look for and who to call can make a big difference.

All what you need to do is:

• SPOT THE SIGNS OF AN EARLY LEAK
• TAKE AN IMMEDIATE ACTION
• CALL THE RIGHT PROFESSIONALS

Remember– Routine maintenance is key to preventing future leaks and ensuring your heating oil tank lasts as long as possible.