10 Signs Your Tank Needs Repair or Replacement

Storage tanks can serve as valuable structures in communities. Whether your municipality needs access to water tanks or your business has gas tanks to maintain operations, they are vital resources. No matter how well you take care of your tanks, prolonged usage takes its toll. Recognizing the signs your tank needs repairs or replacements can save you a lot of time and resources. We’ll go over some of these common signs and what you can do to address them.

1. Structural Cracks or Corrosion

Visible damage to the structure of a storage tank indicates that it needs attention. You should take immediate action if the tank has cracks, splits, or corrosion. Structural issues weaken the integrity of the tank and increase the risk of leaks.

Surface corrosion signifies that rust is spreading, and it can eventually eat through the material. Over time, this can lead to extensive damage that may require repairs or a complete replacement. Regularly inspect for physical damage to catch these problems and lower repair costs.

2. Leaks or Pools of Liquid

Leaks are apparent signs that something is wrong with your storage tank. You can check around for pools of water, oil, or fuel near the tank. Small leaks may seem inconsequential, but they can become larger spills that waste resources and contribute to environmental damage.

Tracking leaks can help you pinpoint areas of wear or defective components; in some cases, sealing the damage may suffice. However, repetitive leaks or ones occurring in critical areas indicate the need for tank replacement.

3. Difficulty in Maintaining Volume

If the volume of the contents is not consistent, there may be leaks or inefficiencies in the system. Water tanks may experience fluctuations that disrupt the supply chains that water treatment plants and other municipalities rely on.

You may also experience unstable fuel levels in an oil or fuel tank, which can increase operational costs or risks. Monitoring tanks with advanced level measuring systems can help you track abnormalities. Persistent issues with volume maintenance could suggest internal structural failure or absorption issues, requiring further inspection.

4. Discoloration or Sediment Accumulation

Another sign that a tank needs attention is unusual changes in the contents of the tank. Discoloration in water tanks could come from sediment that entered through a crack or an ineffective seal. Similarly, sediment buildup at the bottom of water storage tanks points to insufficient maintenance. For fuel and oil tanks, residue around the tank’s base could result from corrosion within or external material entering the system. You can prevent these issues by engaging in routine cleaning or sediment checks. Extensive accumulation may suggest deeper problems that warrant professional repairs or a full replacement.

5. Unusual Odors

You should never ignore sensory signs, such as foul odors coming from a tank. Bad smells in water tanks could stem from organic sources, while oil or fuel tanks may be the result of degradation. Odor changes often result from environmental factors or the breakdown of tank materials. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further dilemmas that threaten community resources.

6. Aging or Outdated Tanks

Many tanks have long lifespans, but they don’t last forever. General wear and tear and the passage of time can take their toll on your tanks, making them more prone to leaks, cracks, or corrosion. If your current tank exceeds its intended lifespan, it might no longer meet modern standards. Continued reliance on old tanks increases the risk of sudden failures that could result in service disruptions or compliance violations. Upgrading to a new tank can ensure reliability and adherence to updated regulations.

7. Inefficiency in Maintaining Temperature

If your tank is not maintaining internal temperatures very well, it needs repairs or replacements. Fuel and oil tanks must maintain a specific internal temperature, so when that starts to fluctuate, it can lead to safety issues and instability. Inefficient temperature regulation is a result of material degradation or faulty seals. Investigating these inefficiencies might reveal areas where minor repairs can restore functionality; in some cases, thermal performance loss may signal that the tank needs replacing.

8. Frequent Repairs

While you can fix some problems with basic repairs, frequent repair jobs for a wide range of reasons may be a sign that you need to replace the tank entirely. Making the investment in a new model with modern safety features is less costly in the long run than continuing to make repairs or adjustments on a tank that has outlived its usefulness.

9. Environmental Concerns

Storage tanks inevitably interact with their surroundings. If you notice unusual vegetation growth, sediment in nearby water sources, or soil degradation around your tank, they could be warnings of leaks or seepage. This may happen even if the tank doesn’t appear to have any issues. Environmental risks can threaten the ecosystem and expose nearby communities to hazards or disruptions. It’s very important to address these issues and clear out all potential concerns before replacing the tank.

10. Difficulty in Compliance With Regulations

Storage tanks, particularly for water, oil, and fuel, must adhere to strict standards and environmental regulations. If your tank fails an inspection or has become increasingly difficult to keep compliant with new laws, it might be time to consider extensive refurbishment or replacement.

Falling behind on compliance can result in costly fines, public distrust, and reputational damage. Performing regular tank assessments and staying updated on regulatory changes can help you make an informed decision about whether your tank still meets current safety and maintenance requirements.

Takeaway for Municipalities and Governments

Repairing or replacing a tank may seem like a big task, but it’s necessary to prevent more issues down the road. Doing regular inspections and understanding the warning signs can make a big difference in extending the life of your storage tank and preserving the quality of your resources.

When it comes to ensuring the longevity and performance of your water storage systems, Pittsburg Tank & Tower Group is here to help. Our expert water tank repair services will meet your needs and provide solutions that prioritize safety and sustainability. Contact us today to discuss how we can keep your tanks operating at their best.