Is Your Oil Tank Safe? As we all know, Maine weather takes its toll, causing ground shifts, frost heaves, rust, and general wear, all of which can affect a heating oil supply tank and its piping. Weather, corrosion, and poor maintenance can lead to spills, smells, leaks, well water contamination, and lower property values. It's time to see if your tank and piping are in shape. Here is a checklist of items that you can easily observe about your oil tank. But remember, look - don't touch. Even if you can see rust or an oily patch of wetness on the tank's surface, do not touch your tank. It's best to call your licensed oil heat technician, and let a professional take care of it. Checklist   1. Are the tank legs unstable or on an uneven foundation?   2. Do you see rust, weeps, wet spots, or excessive dents on the tank's surface? 3. Are there any drips or signs of leakage around the oil filter or valves?   4. Do the oil lines run either under concrete or aboveground without being encased in a protective tubing?   5. Are there any threats of snow or ice falling on the oil tank or the filter?   6. Are there any signs of the tank's vent being clogged or blocked by ice or snow? (Screened vents are available to prevent insect nest problems.)   7. Is the overfill whistle obstructed, or silent when the tank is being filled? (It should whistle.)   8. Are there any signs of spills around the fill pipe?   9. Is the tank's gauge cracked, stuck, or frozen? Do you see oil or staining around it?   10. Is your tank more than 25 years old?   11. Is your outside tank a dark color? (It should be painted a light color to minimize corrosive condensation inside the tank.)

If you answer YES to any of the questions on this checklist, please call a Paul's Plumbing & Heating licensed oil heat technician for a more detailed inspection and corrective measures.   Checklist courtesy of Maine Department of Environmental Protection.  For more information please visit their website.