Why Oil Tanks Fail & What You Need To Know

June 26, 2013

If you are a Massachusetts homeowner who uses heating oil to warm your home, there are things you need to know about responsible oil tank ownership and maintenance. Homeowners should do regular checks to ensure that there are no obvious problems with their heating oil tank, however, your best bet is in hiring a professional heating oil service provider to check your system as part of an overall preventative maintenance program.

Why Heating Oil Tanks Fail

Contents

1 Why Heating Oil Tanks Fail
2 Preventative Maintenance Program in Massachusetts

There are a number of reasons and issues that could cause your heating oil tank to fail. However, there are four primary reasons that affect Massachusetts homeowners the most. Those four reasons include sludge, the thickness of the steel, condensation of water and organic materials. Among these, water condensation is seen more frequently than the others, especially in New England.

When you consider the causes, with the exception of the thickness of the steel, which is attributed to the design of the heating oil tank itself, everything else can be addressed over time to prevent failure and increase the life of the tank through a preventative maintenance program. Regular inspections of your heating oil tank and proper maintenance from an experienced, local provider can help to avoid costly repairs or having to completely replace a heating oil tank due to corrosion or failure.

The Benefits of a Preventative Maintenance Program

When you choose a home heating oil provider and maintenance service, it is important to select one that uses the latest equipment, has experience working on heating oil tanks in your area, has a team of regularly trained technicians and uses advanced diagnostics to help fine-tune your equipment for the best possible results. Some of the benefits associated with scheduling inspections and preventative maintenance services include:

Energy Efficiency – A well-run system will work more efficiently to provide heat to your home while reducing energy consumption and lowering your monthly bill.
Reliable Service – Equipment that has been properly maintained is more likely to be “trouble-free” year-round, requiring less service, repairs, and maintenance overall.
Early Detection – Regular inspections and a preventative maintenance program will help find small problems before they become big, costly repairs or replacements in the future.
Lower Emissions – The cleaner and more well-maintained your heating oil tank is, the cleaner and safer your overall energy consumption and use will be both for your family and the local community.

Why Are Heating Oil Tanks a Concern?

Through the years, heating oil tanks have been stored in underground storage tanks made from steel. While steel is one of the more durable and long-lasting materials available, it can still corrode, rust and wear out over time. When corrosion creates tiny holes and pits inside the shell of the tank, heating oil has the potential to leach out into the surrounding earth and make its way into the local community environment.

Seams within the tank that have been welded are also at risk of corrosion and failure, so the entire tank should be inspected and checked on regularly. There are state and federal requirements with regard to environmental safety for Massachusetts homeowners, which have led to changes in standard preventative maintenance programs for heating oil tanks and new technology and designs have been created to prevent leaking underground.

However, the number one concern with regard to underground heating oil tanks is the contamination of the local environment. Heating oil leaks can cause contamination in the soil surrounding the tank and can spread to other areas in the local environment through groundwater contamination. In this case, most Massachusetts homeowners would need to replace a heating oil tank in order to comply with environmental regulations.

Signs You Might Have to Replace a Heating Oil Tank

If you aren’t sure how old your heating oil tank is or whether or not there is cause to be concerned, there are some signs that you can look for that can be indicative of a failing oil tank.

#1 – Damage to Pipes
If you have experienced damage to the pipes that come from your heating oil tank, you might have a leaking oil tank. Piping connections that are faulty can actually cause a heating oil tank to leak.

#2 – Type of Soil
If you live in an area where there is corrosive soil, an underground heating oil tank has a higher chance of leaking. If the tank itself was damaged during installation, such as hitting a rock or getting gouged by equipment, chances for leaks are also fairly high.

#3 – Water Condensation
Again, the most likely cause of a failed heating oil tank is water condensation. When water gets in the tank it can cause rusting and corrosion from the inside out.

#4 – Oil Spills
If your heating oil delivery service has ever spilled oil at the ground surface around the tank or the tank filler and didn’t clean or remove the oil around the area, it could cause corrosion on the tank, which could lead to leaks.

Preventative Maintenance Program in Massachusetts

If you are a Massachusetts homeowner, it is highly recommended that you get a professional inspection of your heating oil tank done every year. An inspection will assure that your tank is in serviceable condition and is free from leaks or corrosion. If any problems are observed during your inspection, or if you have plans to relocate the tank or upgrade to a newer model, it is important to contact a reputable service provider who can help you to upgrade or replace a heating oil tank according to state safety regulations.

Columbus Energies offers a home heating oil delivery program at very competitive rates, giving customers reliable, quality service since 1960. Columbus offers repairs, services, system upgrades, new installations and of course, home delivery. With technicians on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergencies, customers of Columbus Energies never have to worry about going without warm, safe heat. Call today for a no-obligation estimate and for more information about all of the discounts, programs and preventative maintenance program services available to customers of Columbus Energies.

HVAC expert checking home central AC unit

Seven HVAC Tips For A Smooth Transition From Winter To Spring

April 15, 2024

$HVAC units play a pivotal role in ensuring the comfort and safety of modern building environments. Yet, these indispensable systems are not immune to the challenges of power surges. Such surges, frequently resulting from events like lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the electrical grid, can unleash a rapid influx of electrical current. This sudden surge can inflict severe damage on vital components of the HVAC system, including the compressor, fan motor, and control board. The repercussions of such damage can range from expensive repairs to the necessity of replacing the entire HVAC unit. Given these risks, implementing surge protectors and adhering to electrical safety best practices to safeguard HVAC systems effectively is paramount. Is Your HVAC System Secured Against Power Surges? Pondering over protecting your HVAC system against power surges often indicates a need for proactive measures. Seek the expertise of a seasoned HVAC technician who is ready to evaluate and enhance your system's resilience against power surges. Their guidance and recommendations will ensure that your HVAC system is well-prepared to withstand the challenges posed by unexpected power surges and outages. Understanding Power Surges: What Are They? A power surge represents an abrupt spike in electrical voltage, surpassing the standard levels within a power supply system. These surges can manifest for various reasons, including sudden disruptions in the electrical current flow. Common triggers for these surges include events like lightning strikes, power outages, or the switching on and off of large electrical appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and elevators. Power surges, often lasting merely a fraction of a second, can nonetheless wreak significant havoc on electrical devices and appliances. The surge's excessive electrical energy overburdens and damages the sensitive electronic components within these devices, potentially leading to malfunctions or total failures. Differentiating Power Surge, Power Outage, and Brownout While power surges, power outages, and brownouts all stem from electrical power supply disturbances, they each describe distinct phenomena: Power Surge: This is a brief, intense increase in electrical voltage, due to lightning strikes, outages, or high-powered equipment. A power surge can potentially damage electronic devices and appliances hence surge protectors are essential to safeguard them from potential damage. Power Outage: This event happens when there's an interruption in the electrical power supply to a location, leading to a total loss of power. Numerous factors, such as severe weather conditions and electrical equipment failure, can trigger power outages or even planned maintenance activities. Brownout: Characterized by a reduction in voltage within the electrical power supply, a brownout manifests as dimming or flickering lights and reduced power to appliances. Causes range from high demand on the power grid to equipment malfunctions or issues within the electrical system of a specific building or area. Don't let power surges damage your HVAC system. Contact Columbus Energies now for professional surge protection solutions and ensure your system's longevity and performance! HVAC Components Vulnerable to Power Surges Here are several parts affected by power surges: HVAC Control Board Often referred to as the system's "brain," the HVAC control board is critical for communication with the thermostat. A power surge can damage this component, disrupting its function. Such damage impairs the HVAC system's ability to regulate temperature effectively, leading to insufficient heating or cooling. This can result in discomfort, especially during periods of extreme temperatures. HVAC Compressor Motor This crucial part of your HVAC system, recognizable as a box with wires protruding, plays a pivotal role in refrigerant compression. It converts low-pressure, cool refrigerant into a high-pressure, heated state. The motor, integral to the compressor, is prone to power surge damage. It consists of numerous wires that transform electrical energy into kinetic energy. A surge can cause these wires to overheat, potentially leading to combustion. Furthermore, a compromised motor affects the compressor's performance, hindering its ability to function efficiently. HVAC Capacitor This essential component, typically oval-shaped, serves as a storage unit for electrical charge, crucial for powering the electrical components in your HVAC system. Vulnerable to power surges, the capacitor can sustain damage when exposed to such events. This damage may result in operational difficulties for your HVAC system. HVAC Relay Switch This switch plays a crucial role in your HVAC system, acting to turn on or off components that require high-voltage power. A key feature of most relay switches is an electrical contactor surrounded by a coil. In the event of a voltage exceeding a specific threshold, as in a power surge, the coil is likely to burn out. This can lead to a broken circuit, causing the relay switch to malfunction. Keep your HVAC system safe from power surges with Columbus Energies' comprehensive surge protection services. Reach out to us today for peace of mind and reliable protection! Preventing Power Surge Damage to Your HVAC System Power surges pose a severe risk to HVAC systems, potentially leading to expensive repairs or replacements. Listed below are several tips to protect your HVAC system from power surge damage: Install Surge Protectors: Placing surge protectors on your HVAC unit and electrical panels offers crucial defense against unexpected power surges. These devices act as a barrier, safeguarding your system. Unplug Appliances During Storms: As a precaution, disconnect your HVAC system and other appliances during thunderstorms or severe weather. This simple action can prevent potential damage from lightning-induced surges. Utilize High-Quality Wiring: Implementing top-tier wiring and components is crucial in safeguarding your HVAC system against power surge damage. For optimal safety and efficiency, it's advisable to have these elements installed by a skilled electrician. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Consistently maintaining your HVAC system is a proactive way to prevent surge-related damage. Key practices include cleaning and replacing air filters, ensuring proper refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. Install a Whole-House Surge Protector: Consider a whole-house surge protector for comprehensive protection. Installed at your main electrical panel, it shields your entire home, HVAC system included, from power surges, thus securing all your appliances. Ensure your HVAC system's safety and longevity with Columbus Energies' top-notch surge protection services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your investment! HVAC Power Surge Damage & Warranty Limitations Warranties from HVAC manufacturers typically exclude coverage for power surge damage. Relying on homeowners' insurance can be complex, as proving surge-related damage is often difficult, especially when it accumulates over time. Consequently, homeowners might find themselves responsible for expensive HVAC repairs arising from incidents like lightning strikes, overloaded electrical circuits, or appliance-related issues. Conclusion HVAC systems represent a significant investment crucial for home comfort. Proactive prevention is vital to avoid incurring high costs from power surge damages. Investing in protective measures is a wise choice compared to facing the expense of repairs or replacements. Consult trusted HVAC professionals to ensure your system is well-protected and maintained. Contact Columbus Energies for All Your HVAC Needs Columbus Energies is a premier heating and cooling service provider in Southeastern Massachusetts and the Rhode Island region. Our professionally certified technicians are highly skilled in various HVAC services, including tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Rely on our expertise for accurate and efficient servicing of your system. As a highly sought-after service provider in the region, we are always prepared to meet your HVAC needs. We pride ourselves on offering the area's most affordable heating and cooling solutions. Columbus Energies is synonymous with quality service and cost-effectiveness. lightening storm and hvac surge protection$