What You Need To Know About Your Heating Oil Tank
Regardless the time of year, heating is important in any home. Winter calls for heating the space in the home along with heating the water. Summer and the other seasons have different requirements and often heating the water is all that is needed. It is true that none of us like taking a shower or bath in cold water alone.
Overview
Contents
Many homes throughout the United States use heating oil. It is especially common is the eastern part of the country. It is an exceptionally energy-efficient way to heat a home. The key components of an oil-powered heater include:
- the heating oil tank
- the fuel lines
- boiler/furnace
- fuel filter
- the pump that brings the oil to the burner
Once in awhile the whole heating system needs to be serviced. Typically, it is the boiler/furnace that receives the most maintenance attention and the heating oil tank suffers from neglect until problems start developing in the heating system.
Choosing An Oil Tank
The comfort of your home depends on various things. The size of the heating oil tank you use is one of these. A tank that is too small can leave you without oil when you need it most during cold winter months. It is important that when choosing an oil tank, that you choose one that is the right size for your heating needs.
You will find that there are different types of tanks when you start looking for one. These include above-ground tanks, indoor oil tanks, and underground tanks. There are those with single or double skin and integrally-bunded heating oil tanks.
Different types of materials are also used in the construction of fuel tanks. Many tanks are made from plastic or steel. The one that is better for you depends on your particular needs. It is recommended that you seek the help of a heating oil expert when going through this decision-making process. This ensures that you don’t make a costly mistake.
Caring For A Heating Oil Tank
Keeping The Tank Full
It is not recommended that you use all the fuel in the tank until it is empty before refilling it. When this happens, there is lots of room inside the tank that allows condensation to develop. This leads to fuel floating on top of the water that has developed. This condensation increases over time, especially if the fuel is allowed to run low frequently. Given enough time, the water could actually start leaking into the fuel line and affect the way your furnace operates. Maintaining the fuel level at a minimum of half full will help eliminate this problem.
Check Fill And Vent Caps Routinely
It is not a good idea to allow air, dust, insects, or other microorganisms to enter your oil tank. This is why it is best to check the fill and vent caps routinely throughout the year to ensure that they are secure. The ideal situation is to have a licensed heating technician to check the tank and offers any suggestions if necessary.
Heating Oil Prices Near Me Allentown PA
Proper maintenance of your heating system should involve caring for your heating oil tank as well. Healthy tanks prevent sludge and soot buildup in the heater. Have your system checked by a licensed and certified professional and replace the heating oil tank when necessary.
R.F. Ohl has been providing the residents of the Lehigh Valley with high-quality fuel oil delivery services for over 30 years. We also service HVAC systems, including heaters and air conditioners. For a more detailed list of our home services, click here.
We service Allentown PA 18101, Bethlehem PA 18015, Catasauqua PA 18032, Center Valley PA 18034, Coplay PA 18037, East Texas PA 18046, Emmaus PA 18049, Lehigh Valley PA 18001, Limeport PA 18060, Northampton PA 18067, and Whitehall PA 18052. We also service all of Carbon County, Monroe County, Lehigh County, Northampton County, and Schuylkill County.
Contact us today or give us a call at (610) 377-1098 if you have any questions.