As winter ends and you find yourself with half a tank of heating oil, you might wonder about its shelf life. Will it last until next winter, or has it gone bad? Understanding the longevity of heating oil is crucial, especially if you plan to store it through the summer.
How Long Can Heating Oil Sit in a Tank?
The lifespan of heating oil largely depends on the state of the storage tank used. Tanks degrade over time and require regular maintenance and eventual replacement to ensure they remain in good condition.
If your heating oil is stored in a tank that is free from corrosion and contaminants, and is kept at temperatures above freezing, it should last between 18 to 24 months. This allows you to store leftover oil safely over the summer months.
However, the longer the oil sits in its tank, the more it is prone to deterioration due to several factors:
- Water intrusion is a common issue that can break down the oil. How rapidly this happens generally depends on what impurities are found in the water.
- Bacterial growth can cause your oil to break down, as all tanks naturally contain bacteria.
- Rust and other muck can form in the tank as the interior metal suffers corrosion.
- The use of refurbished oil tanks that were previously used to dump other substances like gasoline or paint can introduce other contaminants.
As you can see, keeping your heating oil tank clean and well-maintained is essential for preserving the quality of your oil and ensuring it lasts longer.
How Do I Know If My Heating Oil Is Bad?
There are several signs that can indicate your heating oil is no longer good:
- The oil appears dark, murky, or has changed color, indicating degradation.
- Sludge or sediment at the bottom of the tank can degrade the oil and clog your heating system.
- Water is always a warning sign and a sure indicator of contamination. Whether it enters the tank through condensation or through a leak, if you see water mixed with the oil or drops of water at the bottom of the oil tank, it is a certain sign that your oil has gone bad.
- Debris and detritus floating in the oil are symptoms of the oil breaking down.
- Burning, rancid, or sour odors can indicate the presence of contaminants such as sulfur compounds, which accelerate your oil’s degradation.
If you detect any of these signs, your oil may have reached its end of life.
Express C.O.D, Long Island’s Source for COD Oil Delivery
If your oil has gone bad, Express C.O.D is your solution. We offer convenient call-on-demand, or COD oil delivery, ensuring you receive oil exactly when you need it. Our plans are friendly to all budgets and include both regular heating oil and BioHeat®, with 24/7 ordering availability and legendary customer service. Contact us today and experience the Express C.O.D Difference!
