Year-round fuel tank maintenance is an essential service for keeping any kind of fuel storage vessel safe and serviceable for as long as possible.

This begins with arranging regular fuel tank inspections and then understanding how to care for these containers in all seasons throughout their service years.

Using these tips on providing adequate fuel tank maintenance, owners of these storage tanks can prevent corrosion and other damage in order to protect their investment in costly fuel tanks.

Regular Fuel Tank Inspections

To provide required fuel tank maintenance to any vessel storing liquid fuels, tank owners must do two things.

They must comply with the maintenance recommendations made by the tank manufacturer.
They must arrange for regular fuel tank inspections as required locally to monitor tank condition over time.

These inspections will reveal what additional types of fuel tank maintenance should be performed or even any repairs that should be made to keep the vessel in safe, functional condition.

Proper Fuel Tank Maintenance

Preventing the damage that can result in corrosion, a need for repairs, and a shorter tank life involves protecting that vessel with year-round fuel tank maintenance that includes the following:

Regular Cleaning - Good fuel tank maintenance begins with regular cleaning to empty the vessel, ridding the interior of any water or sludge that has built up, and scrubbing with an appropriate industrial cleaner before refilling.
Protecting the Interior - After cleaning, large fuel storage tanks should receive new protective coatings if necessary to reduce corrosion and protect welds and connections.
Preventing Water Build-Up - Water inside or around the tank is a prime cause of corrosion due to direct contact or condensation. Above-ground fuel tanks should be protected with a roof cover and insulated to prevent exposure to the elements and have all vents routinely checked to prevent condensation buildup on the inside.
Preventing Bacteria Build-Up - Fuel biocides should be used to prevent bacteria growth inside the tanks which can also create condensation and increase corrosion.
Scheduling Regular Inspections - Regular interior and exterior fuel tank inspections must be made a part of regular maintenance, as it is during these inspections that water, condensation, bacteria, poor venting, clogged filters, corrosion, and other damaging problems are typically identified.
Keeping Fuel Tank Full - Even when fuel demands are lower, fuel tanks should be kept full year-round to reduce problems that can create fuel tank maintenance problems. The more air space there is in the tank, the greater the possibility that condensation can form with corrosion following. Additionally, keeping the tank full will reduce pump and filter problems that can develop when low content levels allow air into the system or promote rusting and sludge formation.

Year-Round Fuel Tank Maintenance Vital to Protect Fuel Tanks

No matter where a fuel storage vessel is located, these containers require fuel tank maintenance year-round to prevent the problems that can slowly destroy them.

Considering that many of the corrosion and functional issues encountered are caused by exposure to water, good maintenance including regular fuel tank inspections must be performed all year long.

With the right fuel tank maintenance and protections to prevent condensation and corrosion, including keeping fuel tanks covered and well vented, owners of these tanks will appreciate a longer service life, fewer tank problems, and a safer means for storing different fuels!