With our first hint of winter nipping at our heels, now is the time to make sure you are ready for the upcoming season. Below are a few suggestions to help keep your oil tank functioning and your home warm and cozy all winter long.
1-Tank inspections- To make sure your tank is in its best position for winter demand, have a certified tank inspector examine your tank. The inspector will look for anything that could impede the function of the tank. He/she will look for leaks, clogs, faulty gauges, and fuel levels. This important step should be performed annually to keep your tank in tip-top shape!!
2-Clean your tank- Keeping your tank clean and free of sludge and water, will help preserve the operation and longevity of your fuel tank. Uncleaned tanks can cause poor flow of fuel to your heating system as well as encourage premature wear. Tank cleaning should be done every three years and is best left to a professional.
3-Remove water- Water in your fuel tank can compromise the structure of your tank. It can lead to rust and corrosion which shortens the life of your fuel tank. Ill-fitting caps, changes in temperature, and lower-quality fuels can cause water to form in your tank. You can speak with your fuel providers for remedies for removing water.
4-Replace Tank Filters- We recommend changing your oil tank filters twice a season. Once at the beginning of the season and again midway through the heating season. Filters help keep your fuel running clean from your tank to your heating unit by catching any debris that could clog your system. A clean filter will keep your system running at its best!!!
5-Prevent Fuel Gelling- Keeping your fuel warm is an important part of maximizing fuel efficiency. The cold weather can cause the fuel in your tank to gel and this can slow the movement of your fuel. To help keep your fuel warm, you can wrap your pipes with insulation or purchase a tank heater to protect the fuel from freezing. You can also add an anti-gelling additive for a more economical way of keeping your fuel flowing.
6-Keep your tank filled- Lastly, it is important to keep your tank filled for maximum efficiency. With a fuller tank, you will have less concern about fuel gelling and the subsequent problems it causes. Also, you are less likely to be susceptible to water forming in the tank through condensation when the volume is greater.
We hope these tips can help to keep you cozy and warm this heating season!!!