Heating systems are essential for New Jersey homes and businesses, especially through the winter months. To keep an effective heating system running, residential and commercial property owners rely on oil tanks to store their fuel supply. One of the most common problems these owners face over time is corrosion — a key factor affecting oil tank life.
Corrosion typically starts from the inside while the tank’s exterior looks untouched, which is why property owners often don’t catch the problem until it’s already advanced — sometimes requiring a more complex oil tank removal in Newark and the surrounding area. To help you stay ahead of the problem, here are the three main factors that affect how long an oil tank lasts, and what to watch for.
1. The Materials Used
The type of steel (or material) an oil tank is made from plays a major role in its lifespan. Most tanks are built from either 12- or 14-gauge steel. 14-gauge tanks are thinner and typically last 10-15 years outdoors, whether installed above-ground or underground. 12-gauge tanks hold up roughly 5 years longer outdoors, and can last an additional 5 years beyond that indoors.
Newer tank models made from fiberglass or plastic can last up to 50 years with proper care — a significant upgrade over older steel tanks still common throughout many Newark-area homes.
2. The Installation
How well a tank was installed has a major impact on how long it lasts. Underground tank corrosion frequently traces back to structural damage sustained during installation, particularly poorly welded or sealed lines and vents. The heavy machinery involved in installation can also cause damage, and underground installations carry a notably higher risk than above-ground ones.
3. The Environmental Effects
Even indoor, above-ground tanks aren’t immune. Temperature swings cause condensation to build up inside the tank, and that moisture corrodes the steel over time. Outdoor tanks face even greater exposure to this kind of damage.
Signs Your Oil Tank Needs Attention
Corrosion doesn’t always announce itself right away, so it helps to know what to look for before a small problem becomes a costly one:
- Rust spots or flaking on the tank’s exterior, especially near seams or the bottom
- An oil smell in the basement, yard, or near the tank that wasn’t there before
- Wet or oily spots on the ground surrounding an outdoor or underground tank
- A sudden drop in oil level with no matching increase in usage
- Dents or bulging anywhere along the tank body
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait — a small leak today can turn into a much larger removal and cleanup job down the road.
Leaks caused by corrosion — no matter how small — should be reported to an oil tank removal company right away to avoid fire hazards or soil contamination. Even minor leaks call for professional oil tank removal to prevent further damage and stop contamination before it spreads. Underground tanks may also require soil testing to check for any existing contamination.
Not sure if you have an old, undisclosed oil tank on your property? Our oil tank sweep service can locate it. Call OilTankPros today to schedule an inspection and avoid a costly hazard down the road.