What To Do If You Suspect Your Oil Tank Is Leaking

Tips from John Cipollone Inc. in Havertown, PA

If your home uses oil heating, a leaking oil tank can cause you several problems. Losing fuel, causing environmental damage, and safety concerns are some of the most prominent issues you’ll deal with. In this article, we are going to tell you what you should know about inspecting your oil tank, what to do if you spot a leak. 

At John Cipollone Inc., we’ve been helping homeowners in Havertown and the surrounding neighborhoods stay comfortable since 1953, and part of that responsibility is making sure oil heating systems are operating safely and efficiently. 

If you want to speak to an expert right away, give us a call at (610) 446-7877, or contact us online. We’d be happy to help you with any questions you may have about your heating system.

How To Inspect Your Oil Tank

You don’t need to be a professional to do a quick visual inspection of your oil tank. In fact, checking it a few times a year can help you catch small problems before they turn into bigger issues that cause damage and cost money.

Here are a few simple steps:

1. Check the outside of the tank for rust or corrosion

Look over the tank’s surface carefully. Any rust spots or discoloration could indicate that the steel is weakening and might start leaking soon. Another thing that could indicate there’s a leak is bubbling paint. 

2. Check For Bubbling Paint

As mentioned above, bubbling paint is a sign that there’s a leak in your oil tank. A leak in the tank allowed the oil to seep out, and push the paint outward. 

3. Look underneath and around the tank

If your tank is installed above ground, take a peek underneath it. Look for oil stains or damp areas on the floor, soil, or concrete pad. Those are some of the red flags that could indicate there is a leak in your tank. While you are taking a look for leaks, make sure the legs and supports are sturdy and not starting to rust.

4. Inspect the fittings and lines

Follow the oil line from the tank to the burner. Look for wet spots, drips, or the smell of oil. These are all signs that oil could be leaking.

5. Check the vent and fill pipes

These pipes allow oil to enter and air to escape safely when filling the tank.  Look for oil coming from the pipe seams or oil leaking from where the vent and fill pipes connect to the tank. 

6. Note any unusual odors

Using your sense of smell is very helpful when looking for leaks. If you smell oil inside or outside near the tank, it’s worth investigating right away. Even if it’s a small leak, it is going to create a strong enough smell to be noticeable. 

If you see or smell anything suspicious, don’t try to repair the tank yourself. Call a professional to come take a look at the tank and let you know the best steps for getting your tank repaired or replaced. 

What To Do If You Find a Leak

If you think there’s a leak in your tank, contact an expert immediately. A leaking tank creates a bunch of different concerns, and getting it fixed right away is the best action you can take. 

At John Cipollone Inc., our technicians will inspect your system, confirm whether the tank is leaking, and recommend the safest next steps. In most cases, the best solution is to replace the tank entirely with a modern, double-wall model that’s built to prevent leaks.

Why A Leaking Oil Tank Is A Serious Problem

Sometimes a small leak is something that can go ignored, whether that be coming from your kitchen sink or showerhead. If you have a leaky oil tank, it’s a much bigger problem, and one that you should fix right away. 

• Environmental damage: Even a small leak can spread through the soil and reach groundwater, leading to costly cleanup and potential fines.
  
  
• Health and safety risks: Heating oil fumes can irritate your lungs, eyes, and skin. In severe cases, long-term exposure can cause health issues.
  
  
• Property value impact: Homebuyers and insurance companies see leaking tanks as serious hazards. An unresolved leak can lower your property’s value and make it harder to sell your home.
  
  

Because of these risks, John Cipollone Inc. requires that every oil tank be in good condition and completely leak-free before we can deliver oil. It’s our way of protecting your home, your family, and the environment — and ensuring that your heating system operates safely and reliably.

The Importance Of Annual Oil Heating System Service

The best way to ensure your heating system and oil tank are in good shape is with routine service. We recommend scheduling annual oil heating service at least once a year. During a routine maintenance, we will: 

• Inspect and clean the burner and heat exchanger to maintain efficiency.
  
  
• Replace oil filters and check fuel lines to prevent clogs and leaks.
  
  
• Test system performance and safety controls so you don’t face a breakdown in the middle of the winter.
  
  
• Look for early signs of corrosion or wear that could lead to leaks or bigger issues down the road.
  
  
• Ensure your system is working safely, properly venting any dangerous gases like carbon monoxide.
  
  

A well-maintained oil heating system burns cleaner, uses less fuel, and lasts longer. This helps you save money and keep your home comfortable all season long.

Trust The Experts At John Cipollone Inc.

If you suspect your oil tank is leaking — or if it’s been over a year since your last heating system service — now’s the time to act.

At John Cipollone Inc., our family-run team has been serving Havertown, Ardmore, and the surrounding communities for over 70 years. We specialize in oil heating systems, fuel delivery, and complete home comfort services.

Give us a call today at (610) 446-7877, or contact us online to schedule your oil tank inspection or heating system service.

Keep your home safe, your system efficient, and your comfort worry-free with help from the local experts you can trust — John Cipollone Inc.