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Preventing Corrosion in Heating Oil Tanks

It pays to maintain a full tank of quality home heating oil.

heating oil tank Rockaway, NJ

New Home heating oil storage tank.

What can you do to maintain a secure and long-lasting heating oil tank at your home in Rockaway or elsewhere in northern New Jersey? With a typical lifespan of 20 to 30 years, heating oil tanks are reliable, but preventing corrosion is essential to maximize their durability and ensure safe operation. Corrosion can weaken a tank’s structure, leading to leaks and costly repairs. The good news? With proper care and attention, you can extend the life of your heating oil tank while keeping your home warm and stress-free.

What Causes Corrosion in Heating Oil Tanks?

Understanding the causes of corrosion can help you take proactive measures to prevent it.

Condensation can form inside a tank when it is not full, particularly during warmer months. This water eventually settles at the bottom of the tank. (Remember the old adage: water and oil don’t mix.) Over time, the accumulation of water inside the tank can lead to internal rusting, which may weaken its structure.

By following a few simple steps, you can keep your heating oil tank healthy and robust for years to come.

1. Keep Your Tank Full During Warm Months

One of the easiest ways to prevent internal rusting is to minimize condensation. A mostly empty tank is more likely to develop condensation as temperatures fluctuate, especially during humid summers. By filling your tank during the off-season, you can reduce the buildup of moisture inside it. Any leftover fuel will remain in good condition for winter use.

2. Use High-Quality Heating Oil

The type of heating oil you use matters. Premium ultra-low-sulfur heating oil like the fuel Dixon Energy delivers burns cleaner and leaves fewer deposits inside your tank. Cleaner-burning oils can significantly reduce the buildup of sludge that contributes to corrosion over time.

3. Perform Regular Visual Inspections

A quick check of your heating oil tank a few times a year can go a long way in catching potential problems early. Look for warning signs such as:

Spotting these issues early could save you from dealing with a more serious problem down the line.

Worried About Corrosion? Get a Dixon Energy Tank Inspection!

Are you concerned about the condition of your heating oil tank? Dixon Energy is here to help! We offer FREE heating oil tank inspections for homeowners across northern New Jersey. Our team of experts will thoroughly assess your tank to ensure it’s in good working order and identify any vulnerabilities before they turn into costly repairs.

If it’s time to replace your current tank, Dixon Energy can install top-quality double-walled Roth tanks. These tanks not only protect against leaks with their galvanized steel outer wall but also include cutting-edge safety features like built-in leak detection. Plus, when you purchase a new tank from us, you’ll receive three years of Proguard tank protection at no extra cost. This coverage provides peace of mind by covering any cleanup costs in the rare event of a leak.

Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big problem. Contact Dixon Energy today to schedule your free inspection and learn more about our premium oil tanks.