Tanks age differently depending on their quality and location. For underground tanks, factors such as soil composition and moisture can affect their life span. Therefore, expert installation of a high-quality tank is critical, and Tevis has tank experts that can help you.
For aboveground tanks, constant exposure to harsh elements or treatment can have an adverse affect on a tank’s life.

Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your Aboveground Oil Tank:

	Check your tank regularly for signs of wear or damage.
	Protect your tank from bicycles and other heavy objects.
	If you see surface rust developing in an area other than the bottom of your tank, gently remove it with a wire brush and then cover the area with light-colored enamel paint intended for metal. (Dark-colored paints will attract heat and cause moisture to collect inside the tank.) If you do not find clean metal after light brushing, you should stop and call us to schedule an estimate for tank replacement.
	If your tank has rust along its bottom or is showing any signs of “weepage” (which may appear as an oily stain on the tank) call us immediately to schedule an estimate for tank replacement. Do not try to remove rust from the bottom of your oil tank!
	If your aboveground tank is outdoors or in an area that experiences dramatic changes in temperature, keep your tank 75% - 80% full during the summer to prevent condensation from developing inside your tank and causing internal wear. This trapped moisture can also lead to bacteria growth and the development of sediment as bacteria die and fall to the bottom of your tank.
	If you suspect sediment in your tank, Tevis has special additives that can help break it down. However, if the problem persists, tank replacement is usually advised.

Underground Oil Tanks:

	Other than protecting fill pipes and underground supply lines, no maintenance to an underground tank is required.
	There are no laws requiring the testing or removal of underground oil tanks, however, if you currently have a tank that is 25 or more years old, you may want to consider replacing it with a modern, corrosion-resistant tank.
	Converting to another heating fuel to avoid tank replacement is likely to be your least economical solution. Inactive tanks need to be properly closed or disposed of. The average cost of this procedure is between $1,500 and $2,500, not including new heating equipment… This usually costs quite a bit more than replacing the tank. Plus, you’d miss your cozy Tevis Oil heat and our friendly service!
	Please note: The property-owner is responsible for the maintenance of oil tanks located on their property. Though they are rare, an oil spill that occurs as a result of tank failure is the responsibility of the property-owner.

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