Oil leaks are definitely something everyone should avoid. They can be pretty costly, and constant exposure to odors from heating oils can lead to certain health conditions such as damage to your immune system, cancer, blood-related complications, and, worst of all, they can lead to death. This is why it is recommended that you inspect your heating oil tank before ordering a fresh batch of heating oil.

Things To Watch Out for When Carrying Out Self-Inspection on Your Oil Tank

1. You should ensure there are no leaks anywhere – on top or beneath the fuel tank.
2. The fuel tank must be balanced and placed on a solid structure or ground.
3. Make sure the fill and vent pathways are properly connected, unclogged, and void of leaking spots.
4. The pipe connecting the oil tank and the burner must be tightly and properly fixed. You should also make sure the oil line is not leaking in any way.
5. End the inspection by checking out the critical points of your heating oil tank connection.

The Critical Points of a Heating Oil Tank Connection

There are some significant spots you should take note of when inspecting your heating oil tank. These are the critical spots and what their ideal state is.

1. Fill Pipe: 

This pipe is linked to the heating oil tank and is used by the oil delivery company to supply oil to the tank. You should ensure that there are no spots of leakage in the fill pipe. It should also be fitted with a cap that prevents water from coming in contact with the oil.

2. Vent Pipe: 

The vent pipe is a black ferrous structure whose function is to supply ventilation as oil flows from the tank to the burner. The vent pipe is also fitted with a mushroom-like cap to prevent foreign particles from entering your pipes. Make sure this pipe is unclogged.

3. Oil filter: 

This part of the setup helps to arrest dirt and other foreign particles that might want to enter and clog up your fuel tank. After a while, you will need to check up on these filters and replace them with new ones.

4. Gauge: 

The tank gauge must be operational, letting you know how much fuel is left in your tank. Check the gauge regularly to ensure it is still functioning and void of any cracks. You can do this by monitoring gauge levels using either heating oil in the tank or refilling it.

5. The Tank Body: 

The surface of the fuel-holding structure should be free of any rust, massive dents, etc. The tank’s legs help maintain the fuel tank’s stability, irrespective of the structure or foundation where they lie. These legs must be constantly checked to ensure they are in good shape and not bent or buckling.

If you have checked your heating oil tank and are still not sure it is safe for use or you would like an expert’s opinion, kindly reach out to us at Arlex Oik. At Arlex Oil, we provide residents and businesses with oil tank maintenance and heating oil delivery services. We are the best at what we do and are just a phone call away! Give us a call today or fill out our online contact form!